Blandishment vs. Coaxing

Attribute	Blandishment	Coaxing
Definition	Flattering or pleasing speech or action used to persuade someone gently to do something	Persuading someone to do something by gentle and persistent argument or flattery
Tone	Usually more subtle and indirect	Can be more direct and persistent
Intent	To persuade or influence someone through praise or flattery	To convince or manipulate someone through gentle persuasion
Emotion	Often associated with positive emotions like admiration or approval	Can involve a mix of positive and negative emotions to achieve the desired outcome

Definition

Blandishment and coaxing are two techniques used to persuade or influence someone to do something. Blandishment involves using flattery or praise to win someone over, while coaxing involves gently persuading or manipulating someone to do something they may not initially want to do.

Approach

When it comes to approach, blandishment tends to be more direct and overt. It involves showering the person with compliments and praise in order to get them to agree to your request. Coaxing, on the other hand, is more subtle and indirect. It involves using gentle persuasion and subtle manipulation to get the person to do what you want.

Intent

The intent behind blandishment is to make the person feel good about themselves and to stroke their ego in order to get them to comply with your request. It is often used in situations where the person may be hesitant or resistant to doing what you want. Coaxing, on the other hand, is more about subtly guiding the person towards a decision without them realizing they are being influenced. It is often used in situations where the person may be more stubborn or resistant to persuasion.

Effectiveness

Both blandishment and coaxing can be effective in persuading someone to do something, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the individual and the situation. Blandishment can be very effective with people who have a strong need for approval or validation, as they may be more susceptible to flattery. Coaxing, on the other hand, can be effective with people who are more analytical or skeptical, as it allows you to subtly guide them towards a decision without triggering their defenses.

Use of Language

One key difference between blandishment and coaxing is the use of language. Blandishment often involves using flowery language and exaggerated compliments to win someone over. Coaxing, on the other hand, involves using more subtle and persuasive language to gently guide the person towards a decision without them realizing they are being influenced.

Relationship Dynamics

When it comes to relationship dynamics, blandishment can sometimes be seen as insincere or manipulative, especially if the person realizes they are being flattered in order to get them to do something. Coaxing, on the other hand, can be seen as more genuine and respectful, as it involves gently persuading someone without resorting to overt manipulation.

Long-Term Impact

In terms of long-term impact, blandishment may have a negative effect on the relationship if the person feels they have been manipulated or deceived. Coaxing, on the other hand, may have a more positive impact on the relationship if the person feels they have been gently guided towards a decision that is in their best interest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both blandishment and coaxing are techniques used to persuade or influence someone to do something, but they differ in their approach, intent, effectiveness, use of language, relationship dynamics, and long-term impact. It is important to consider the individual and the situation when deciding which technique to use, as both have their own strengths and weaknesses.