What is the primary purpose of a rhetorical question?

The primary purpose of a rhetorical question is to make a point without expecting a reply. Rhetorical questions are typically used in speeches, writing, or conversations to emphasize a statement or provoke thought in the audience. By posing a question that doesn't require an answer, the speaker or writer can highlight an issue or express a viewpoint more effectively.

For instance, asking "Who wouldn’t want to be successful?" suggests that success is desirable without genuinely soliciting responses from the audience. This technique helps engage listeners and encourages them to reflect on the underlying message being conveyed. In this way, rhetorical questions serve as a powerful tool for persuasion and emphasis in communication.