380 High Emotion Words Guaranteed to Make You more Persuasive
Edited to add:
Her Royal Sweetness Lisa Burger realized what a pain it is to scroll through this long-ass list and kindly whipped up a lovely document that you can use as your very own swipe file. Now ain’t that sweet! Get it here.
Words aren’t just strings of alphabets sewn together with ink
Words are cues
Words are triggers
Words when used correctly can transform an “eh whatever” into “wow that’s it!”
Words can make you go from literally ROFL to fuming with fury to an uncontrollable-urge-to-take-action-NOW-or-the-earth-may-stop-swinging -on-its-axis.
These are what I call High Emotion Words
And these are capable of transforming an absolute no into almost yes and a “perhaps” into “for sure”!
Because it isn’t really about your desired action but the underlying emotion that drives that action. If you get them to feel that emotion, you GOT ‘em.
When you are trying to sell people a solution, what you are REALLY doing is evoking desire by making them imagine their best possible future with your solution
When you are trying to get them to take an action (like, share, subscribe, buy) what you are REALLY doing is arousing them (not THAT way… get your mind out of the gutter) to make it impossible for them NOT to take an action
When you are trying to get people to click and read your article, what you are REALLY doing is evoking curiosity so fierce that it claws at the minds of a casual browser and forces him to click that link and read that piece.
When you are trying to get someone to agree with you, what you are REALLY doing is trying to evoke empathy so they see your point of view.
So what are these high emotion words that can work this magic?
Glad you asked.
I have compiled a list of 380 words that are proven to induce certain emotions (both negative and positive) and that I strongly encourage you use in your online (and offline) communications to get your prospect to take the desired action.
But before I share the list with you, here is a 3 step plan to get the most out of these words:
Step One: Determine the desired action you want your prospect to take (e.g. like, share, read, subscribe, comment, buy etc.)
Step Two: Determine the exact emotional state that will drive that action (e.g. curious, relaxed, fearful, inspired etc.)
Step Three: Choose some of the words from this list and sprinkle ‘em throughout your content.
And now The List:
Emotional State: Curiosity (when you want them to be gripped by an unshakable desire to click and read more):
- Secret
- Confidential
- Controversial
- Underground
- What no one tells you
- Have you heard
- Cover-up
- Forbidden
- Banned
- Behind the Scenes
- Secret agenda
- Secret plot
- Insider
- Off-the record
- Blacklisted
- Censored
- Concealed
- Confessions
- Unbelievable
- Covert
- No one talks about
- Hidden
- underground
-
Insider's Scoop
-
Intel
Emotional State: Urgency (If you want then to take action now now now):
- Magical
- Instantly
- Missing Out
- Left behind
- Magnificent
- Miracle
- Most Important
- Profitable
- Proven
- Quick
- Remarkable
- Results
- Revolutionary
- Safe
- Save
- Sensational
- Should
- Startling
- Strongly agree/ recommend
- Strongly suggest
- Superb
- Superior
- Tremendous
- Truly
- Trustworthy
- Urge
- Worthwhile
- Deadline
- Limited
- Seize
- bargain
- Discount
- Explode
- Extra
- Fortune
- Freebie
- Jackpot
- Reduced
- Instant Savings
- Skyrocket
-
Immediately
-
Imminently
Emotional State: Confusion and Helplessness (Especially useful when questioning Status Quo, making them realize what they are missing out or “us vs them” style content)
- doubtful
- uncertain
- indecisive
- perplexed
- embarrassed
- hesitant
- disillusioned
- distrustful
- misgiving
- unsure
- tense
- stressed
- uncomfortable
- dishonest
- disdainful
- manipulative
- judgmental
- argumentative
- authoritative
- condescending
- distracted
- disoriented
- off-kilter
- frenzied
- blushing
- awkward
- incapable
- paralyzed
- fatigued
- inferior
- vulnerable
- distressed
- pathetic
- distraught
- doomed
- overwhelmed
- incompetent
- incapacitated
- trapped
- squirming
- jittery
- woozy
- twitching
- compulsive
- uncaring
- uninterested
- unresponsive
- terrified
- suspicious
- anxious
- alarmed
- panicked
- threatened
- cowardly
- insecure
-
Deceived
-
Helplessness
-
Disempowered
Emotional State: Anger (This is a high physiological arousal emotional state that can help drive a number of actions such as getting support for a cause or sharing content because of the sheer outrage felt)
- Ordeal
- Outrageousness
- Provoke
- Repulsive
- Scandal
- Severe
- Shameful
- Shocking
- Terrible
- Tragic
- Unreliable
- Unstable
- Wicked
- Aggravate
- Agony
- Appalled
- Atrocious
- Corrupting
- Damaging
- Deplorable
- Disadvantages
- Disastrous
- Disgusted
- Dreadful
- Eliminate
- Harmful
- Harsh
- Inconsiderate
- enraged
- offensive
- aggressive
- frustrated
- controlling
- resentful
- malicious
- infuriated
- critical
- violent
- vindictive
- sadistic
- spiteful
- furious
- agitated
- antagonistic
- repulsed
- quarrelsome
- venomous
- rebellious
- exasperated
- impatient
- contrary
- condemning
- seething
- scornful
- sarcastic
- poisonous
- jealous
- ticked off
- revengeful
- retaliating
- reprimanding
- powerless
- despicable
- self-hating
- desperate
- alienated
- pessimistic
- dejected
-
vilified
-
unjustified
-
violated
Emotional State: Safe and Satisfied (Great for Sales Pages when you want people to feel secure in their choice)
- Accurate
- instantly
- Advantage
- Always
- A cut above
- Bargain
- Certain
- Certainly
- Confident
- Convenient
- Definitely
- Delighted
- Easy
- Ecstatic
- Effective
- Emphasize
- Extremely
- Freedom
- Guaranteed
- Highly effective/ likely
- Introducing
- First ever
- Investment
- conscientious
- approving
- honored
- privileged
- adaptable
- relaxed
- Astonishing
- Astounded
- assured
- fulfilled
- genuine
- authentic
- self-sufficient
- reliable
- sure
- secure
- stable
- honest
- truthful
- supportive
- excellent
- responsible
- solid
- trusting
- supported
- Absolutely
- Bargain
-
clarity
-
transparency
-
humility
Emotional State: Happy and Alive (Health based products or services):
- blissful
- joyous
- delighted
- overjoyed
- gleeful
- thankful
- festive
- ecstatic
- satisfied
- cheerful
- sunny
- elated
- jubilant
- jovial
- fun-loving
- lighthearted
- glorious
- innocent
- child-like
- gratified
- euphoric
- on top of the
- world
- playful
- courageous
- energetic
- liberated
- optimistic
- frisky
- animated
- spirited
- thrilled
- wonderful
- funny
- intelligent
- exhilarated
- spunky
- youthful
- vigorous
- tickled
- creative
- constructive
- helpful
- resourceful
- at ease
- comfortable
- pleased
- encouraged
- surprised
- content
- serene
- bright
- blessed
-
Vibrant
-
Bountiful
-
Glowing
Emotional State: Inspired (as part of content that is meant to inspire and make them feel like they are capable and in charge)
- motivated
- eager
- keen
- earnest
- inspired
- enthusiastic
- bold
- brave
- daring
- hopeful
- upbeat
- assured
- clear
- balanced
- fine
- okay
- grateful
- carefree
- adequate
- fulfilled
- genuine
- authentic
- forgiving
- sincere
- uplifted
- unburdened
- confident
- self-sufficient
- reliable
- sure
- unique
- dynamic
- tenacious
- cooperative
- productive
- exuberant
- in the zone
- responsive
- conscientious
- approving
- honored
- privileged
- adaptable
-
Empowered
-
Focused
-
Capable
Emotional State: Relaxed and Peaceful (Products or services that offer mental peace and relaxation):
- calm
- at ease
- comfortable
- content
- quiet
- certain
- relaxed
- serene
- bright
- blessed
- balanced
- grateful
- carefree
- fulfilled
- genuine
- authentic
- forgiving
- sincere
- uplifted
- unburdened
- confident
- self-sufficient
- glowing
- radiant
- beaming
- reflective
- smiling
- grounded
- unhurried
- open-minded
- efficient
- non-controlling
- unassuming
- trusting
- supported
- fluid
- light
- spontaneous
- aware
- healthy
- meditative
- still
- rested
- waiting
- laughing
- graceful
- natural
- steady
- centered
- placid
-
Clear
-
Stoic
-
Aligned
phewwwww that was one long ass list don’t you think?
But how about we make it to 500. Now that’s a thought!
Help make that happen guys and drop some of your favorite high emotion words in the comments and I will go and add those to this list (with credit of course)
Ready. Set. GO!
Edited to Add:
I literally have the BEST readers ever and the the ever generous & awesome (Not to mention with the coolest name Eva!) Jo Jo Fildi has contributed some 20+ words making it a square 400. I have added those above colored in blue.
Sources:
Persuasive and Emotive Language
Great resource – bookmarked! Thanks again
Don’t think I saw irreconcilable. I’d say it’s a strongly persuasive word as most courts in America will accept that one word to grant you a divorce! ????
Awesome list!!
How about these?
Wondrous
Marvelous
Fantastic
Humongous
Fantabulous
Thanks!
Oh My gawwd these are amazing, as usual you add great value.
Thanks Miguel!
Disingenuous assertations
*KAPOW*
(Mind blown)
That just happened ma’am…….. You’re welcome!!
This is the ultimate thesaurus for people who sell!!!
Great list Bushra! And thanks to Lisa Burger for consolidating it for us 🙂
Lacey my love, so glad you found this useful and yes Lisa is a rockstar!!
O.M.G. Bushra! You continually amaze me! This list is awesome blossom:-)
Awesome blossom? LOl I’m definitely stealing that. Thanks love!
Thank you for sharing this excellent resource. I’m in the process of revising some content and found this helpful as I move away from a technical writing style.
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Hi thanks for this article Bushra, I love the way you divided it out. i book marked it and will return to use it for guidance. One little tiny-tiny issue though I thought I’d point out, I found a little type-o, it appears you typed “then” instead of “them” in this title “Emotional State: Urgency (If you want then to take action now now now):”. Not trying to pick, just want to help. Cheers!
Hery Thanks Christie for pointing that out…typos will be the death of me…
[…] If you must use descriptive words, use simple and common words that are emotionally effective. This is no time to go crazy with a thesaurus and impress the world with your vocabulary. The language must not get in the way of the emotional prodding you’re trying to achieve. Save your thinking words for your blog posts, and focus on words that are powerful persuaders. […]
[…] What you are looking for is words that prompt emotional identification. Here’s a list of 380 trigger words as such, use them with restraint lest it sounds too cheesy, remember what we discussed about an […]
[…] of Reach the “P.E.A.C.” of Irresistible Content might be more appropriate. Furthermore, try to include a strong emotion word in your title. In doing so, you have a better chance at affecting your audience viscerally. You can […]
Here’s some that I found.
Devoted
Inferno
Treacherous
Smoldering
Relentless
Excruciating
I used these words to describe my favorite character form the Mortal Kombat series. Scorpion. If you have any other words please tell me. I would like to hear our ideas.
Fantastic list! It is incredibly important to use a power packed list of words to make an impression in a short period of time. Thanks!
Oh I love this list! I’ve always liked words and could easily get lost in the thesaurus when I’m searching for the perfect synonym! Thanks for the inspiration. 🙂
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Awesome Bushra!
When targeting men I would use words such as leader, courageous proud, pride, hunter, protect, provide and sex (ok ok we are all adults here).
I could kick myself for not seeing this fabulous list before now!
[…] Keywords within the subject line: — using keywords that create an emotional tie will have a greater impact on your audience. Use words that relate to your audience. For a list of Emotional Value words click here […]
Nicee, thank you! I’m trying to make my texts more engaging and this helped a lot.
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Found this through an SEMRush article. Thank you for the list. I LOVE your website! 🙂
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Wow, Excellent post. great work
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thanks so much, I’m so tired to use ‘should’ ‘could’ ‘can’ ‘will’………. ahahahahahaha
Fantastic
Hi bushra,
how to craft slogan for airline ? where safety never compromised, and passenger comfort first.
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[…] Find emotional words here and here […]
Great list!
What about words that feel overused like Transform, Transformational? Is there a new buzz word replacing this one? ie Transformational Coach.
Great list!
What about words that feel overused like Transform, Transformational? Is there a new buzz word replacing this one? ie Transformational Coach.
[…] “380 High Emotion Words” on The Persuasion Revolution […]
Wow woooooow thanks a lot
A very vast collections of emotions list. Thanks for all your hard work you did for us. Appreciate it.
[…] In other words you're putting your feelings into words: This is called the power of emotional language. […]
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Very helpful. Thanks.
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[…] are many power words and phrases. Two power words among the rest stand out. They let our prospects know to listen closely, and they force us to talk […]
Much as English is the only language used in my country for instruction and administrative purposes, as a non-native, I must say, this list is incredibly great for an aspiring copywriter. It is great value for … aaaah, … no money?! Thank you Bushra. I google searched for the term emotions. I wanted to get a deeper understanding of emotions and feelings. Now this …. Thanks again. In my country we would use the slang — ‘thank you big time’ — I do not know whether it makes any sense to native speakers.
I love words! (When they stir:) )
How bout..
Quaint
Enchant
Succulent
Succumb
Savor
Luscious
Whispered
Disturbing
Absorbed
Obsurd
Pompous
Eloquent
Monstrous
Inhumane
Daunting
Playful
Warm
Evolving
Flourish
Ingenious
Ancient
Nostalgic
Reminiscent
Kindred
Spirit
Graceful
Intellect
Intrusive
Arise
Erect
Euphoric
Dichotomy
Binary
Elusive
Transparent
Despair
Truth
Metaphysic
Spiritual
Awakening
Perception
Endearment
Fascination
Fluid
Liquid
Organic
Powerful
Enigmatic
Numb
Stir
Sewn
Flippant
Challenge
Question
Research
Contest (verb)
Quest
Notion
Address (verb)
Very nice… Thanks for providing this list.
WOWWW! This is EXTRA-ORDINARY, Bushra! So glad you made this. Have already bookmarked. Loving the other suggestions too.
Arfa
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I have written many articles in the past. Never understood why i did not get many readers and followers. Probably i did not engage. Your list is comprehensive and useful. Thank you for the great post and wonderful sharing.
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Great list!!!!! Thank you for this post; it is definitely a WINNER LIST for me. Just what I was looking for. Thanks again!!!
Hi,
Some of the great lists of emotion persuasive words and I also finding these kinds of the list for creating an eye-catching title for blogs. also bookmarked your site for further these kinds of content.
Keep up the writing Bushra.
Regards Faisal.
[…] trigger words with restraint. Don’t use excess emotional […]
Thanks so much Bushra for helping me and others succeed! This will most definitely help me with engaging my conversations with sellers and buyers. I don’t have much to add at this time and you seem to have everything already. Blessings