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:

The Work of Byron Katie

Persuasive and Emotive Language

 

 

 

380 High emotion words guranteed to make you more persuasive380 High emotion words guranteed to make you more persuasive

75 Comments

  1. CS on August 11, 2014 at 1:51 pm

    Great resource – bookmarked! Thanks again

    • Candy on October 5, 2017 at 12:39 am

      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! ????

  2. Miguel Lira on August 14, 2014 at 8:53 pm

    Awesome list!!

    How about these?

    Wondrous
    Marvelous
    Fantastic
    Humongous
    Fantabulous

    Thanks!

    • bushra.a on August 20, 2014 at 5:49 pm

      Oh My gawwd these are amazing, as usual you add great value.

      Thanks Miguel!

    • Steven Nichols Jr on March 6, 2017 at 7:41 am

      Disingenuous assertations

      *KAPOW*
      (Mind blown)

      That just happened ma’am…….. You’re welcome!!

  3. Lacey on January 2, 2015 at 5:56 pm

    This is the ultimate thesaurus for people who sell!!!
    Great list Bushra! And thanks to Lisa Burger for consolidating it for us 🙂

    • bushra.a on January 3, 2015 at 9:54 am

      Lacey my love, so glad you found this useful and yes Lisa is a rockstar!!

  4. Tandy Elisala on January 3, 2015 at 4:30 am

    O.M.G. Bushra! You continually amaze me! This list is awesome blossom:-)

    • bushra.a on January 3, 2015 at 9:54 am

      Awesome blossom? LOl I’m definitely stealing that. Thanks love!

  5. Jacqueline H. on August 5, 2015 at 5:00 pm

    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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    […] so on. The Persuasion Revolution has a comprehensive list of 380 emotion words you can use in your […]

  10. Christie on September 20, 2015 at 9:26 pm

    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!

    • bushra.a on October 11, 2015 at 11:02 am

      Hery Thanks Christie for pointing that out…typos will be the death of me…

  11. How To Write A Call To Action + Free Download on September 28, 2015 at 6:08 pm

    […] 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. […]

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  14. Ronnie on January 14, 2016 at 1:49 pm

    Here’s some that I found.
    Devoted
    Inferno
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    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.

  15. Haley on January 23, 2016 at 6:34 pm

    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!

  16. Kathryn J on March 19, 2016 at 12:17 pm

    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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  18. Mochael on April 28, 2016 at 8:48 am

    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).

  19. DanielC on December 7, 2016 at 7:08 pm

    I could kick myself for not seeing this fabulous list before now!

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  21. ZADE on January 3, 2017 at 4:25 am

    Nicee, thank you! I’m trying to make my texts more engaging and this helped a lot.

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  27. Lisa on January 26, 2017 at 11:28 pm

    Found this through an SEMRush article. Thank you for the list. I LOVE your website! 🙂

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  30. MD Kawsar on February 11, 2017 at 5:04 pm

    Wow, Excellent post. great work

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  32. list of verbs on February 28, 2017 at 12:14 pm

    thanks so much, I’m so tired to use ‘should’ ‘could’ ‘can’ ‘will’………. ahahahahahaha

  33. Chris on March 8, 2017 at 7:02 pm

    Fantastic

  34. kalash on March 14, 2017 at 8:17 am

    Hi bushra,
    how to craft slogan for airline ? where safety never compromised, and passenger comfort first.

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  39. Lynda on June 1, 2017 at 12:50 pm

    Great list!

    What about words that feel overused like Transform, Transformational? Is there a new buzz word replacing this one? ie Transformational Coach.

  40. Lynda on June 1, 2017 at 12:50 pm

    Great list!
    What about words that feel overused like Transform, Transformational? Is there a new buzz word replacing this one? ie Transformational Coach.

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    Wow woooooow thanks a lot

  43. Andy on August 3, 2017 at 7:32 am

    A very vast collections of emotions list. Thanks for all your hard work you did for us. Appreciate it.

  44. […] In other words you're putting your feelings into words: This is called the power of emotional language. […]

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  46. Vj on September 2, 2017 at 8:44 am

    Very helpful. Thanks.

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  56. Christine on July 18, 2018 at 8:12 am

    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.

  57. Kathryn Carl (Katie) on October 7, 2018 at 4:38 pm

    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)

  58. Rahul Bhichher on October 23, 2018 at 12:57 pm

    Very nice… Thanks for providing this list.

  59. arfa nazeer on November 3, 2018 at 3:04 pm

    WOWWW! This is EXTRA-ORDINARY, Bushra! So glad you made this. Have already bookmarked. Loving the other suggestions too.

    Arfa

  60. […] Effortless, Painstaking, Fun, Free, Incredible, Essential, Absolute, Strange. Here are some more words. […]

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  62. Shan on January 15, 2019 at 1:42 am

    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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  66. Kiesha on February 13, 2019 at 6:33 pm

    Great list!!!!! Thank you for this post; it is definitely a WINNER LIST for me. Just what I was looking for. Thanks again!!!

  67. Muhammad Faisal on March 6, 2019 at 2:42 pm

    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.

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  69. Teresa on April 14, 2019 at 10:27 pm

    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

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