Many words lose a fair amount of their semantic load, being torn from a phrase. Some terms appeared in the language and / or were developed in translations of the biblical text, its adaptation to Russian people. Among them is “exhortation”. This is a multi-valued synonym for persuasion, which, depending on the circumstances, can be interpreted as “comforting” or even “encouraging”. Let's take a closer look at the context.
Biblical etymology
In the original Greek text, the verb “paraclain” is often found. By the same root noun “parakletos” is meant the Holy Spirit, and literal translation in this case:
If we are talking specifically about action, then an exhortation is an appeal with a certain appeal to the crowd or to a specific person. The format of the appeal may vary:
But this is a literal reading, which some researchers see only within the framework of the concept of soul salvation. Philologists interpret the concept more broadly, give its explanation for different everyday situations.
Everyday communication
The word is often used in the format of communication between parents or teachers with the younger generation. But what does “exhortation” mean in such a relationship? The traditional institute of mentoring and education! An outdated definition breaks down into many meanings:
the instruction of man;
attempt to give advice;
conviction;
persuasion.
Even if you heard the concept for the first time, you probably came across it repeatedly. When grandmother chastises grandchildren for a broken vase or eaten jam, this is an exhortation. As well as the calls of the class teacher spend more time on textbooks in anticipation of exams. The interlocutor seems to be trying to apply three behaviors at once:
ashamed of misconduct;
asks to be corrected;
teaches how to do.
Similar occurs in adulthood. For example, as part of a corporate policy aimed at increasing productivity. Or in educational conversations with representatives of the executive branch about the dangers of smoking in public places.
Actual vocabulary
Add definition to personal dictionary? Of course, “exhortation” is a bright, saturated term. You will be able to characterize the behavior of the mentor and demonstrate your own erudition. However, the word from the speech of contemporaries disappeared, and even before it often appeared only on the pages of books. Focus on the context, try to be more understandable to others, and then your attempt to educate the interlocutor will be more successful!