Question 1
A community newsletter states: "Everyone in the neighbourhood already supports the new parking plan, so don't be left behind." Which propaganda technique does this sentence rely on?No clue? Show me the answer
Correct answerCorrect!
IncorrectStep-by-step walkthrough
Choose a solution method
Method #1Direct reasoningStep 1: Locate the persuasive move
The sentence claims everyone already agrees and warns against being 'left behind' if you don't join in.
Step 2: Match to technique definitions
Bandwagon works by pressuring people to conform because 'everyone else' is already doing something.
Step 3: Check the social instinct triggered
The instinct triggered here is fear of exclusion from the group, which is the core mechanism of bandwagon appeals.
Step 4: Confirm the answer
Since the sentence leans on claimed universal support rather than danger, virtue words, or softened language, bandwagon is the correct label.
Method #2Process of eliminationStep 1: Rule out fear
Fear appeals warn of danger or loss, but this sentence emphasises social conformity, not a threat of harm.
Step 2: Rule out euphemism
Euphemism softens something unpleasant with gentler words, but nothing in the sentence is being disguised as less harsh.
Step 3: Rule out glittering generalities
Glittering generalities use vague virtue words like 'freedom' or 'progress', which are absent from this specific claim.
Step 4: Confirm bandwagon
The appeal to already-existing consensus and the warning about being left behind point clearly to bandwagon.
Question 2
A government spokesperson describes newly laid-off workers as having been given "career transition opportunities." Which technique is this, and what effect does it have on the audience?No clue? Show me the answer
Correct answerCorrect!IncorrectStep-by-step walkthrough
Choose a solution method
Method #1Direct reasoningStep 1: Identify the phrase's function
The phrase 'career transition opportunities' replaces the blunt term 'layoffs' with something that sounds positive and forward-looking.
Step 2: Apply the definition of euphemism
Euphemism specifically mutes emotion by substituting a gentler phrase for an unpleasant reality.
Step 3: Consider the intended audience effect
The intended effect is that listeners feel less alarmed or sympathetic outrage than the word 'layoffs' would provoke.
Step 4: Confirm the match
Since the phrase softens rather than intensifies or divides, euphemism is the technique and reduced alarm is the effect.
Method #2Process of eliminationStep 1: Rule out glittering generalities
Glittering generalities use abstract virtue words like 'freedom', not a specific substitute term for a harsh event.
Step 2: Rule out fear
Fear appeals emphasise danger and urgency, but this phrase does the opposite by calming and softening the news.
Step 3: Rule out us-vs-them
Us-vs-them creates opposing groups, but no group division is being drawn in this single rebranding phrase.
Step 4: Confirm euphemism
The substitution of a gentle phrase for a harsh reality confirms euphemism as the correct technique.
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