What does the verb cajole imply?

The verb "cajole" implies to flatter or gently urge someone, often in a persuasive and somewhat playful manner. The essence of cajoling involves using charm, flattery, or lighthearted persuasion to influence someone’s decision without resorting to pressure or force. It suggests a subtle approach where the person being persuaded may not even feel they are being pressured at all; instead, they might feel appreciated or admired.

In the context of this definition, the other choices do not capture the nuance of cajoling. For instance, forcing someone to do something indicates a level of coercion that is contrary to the gentle persuasion implied by cajole. Ignoring someone’s feelings suggests a lack of empathy rather than the tender approach of cajoling. Criticizing harshly denotes a negative interaction that is the opposite of the friendly or flattering approach that cajoling entails. Thus, the correct understanding of cajole revolves around the gentle and flattering nature of persuasion, making that choice the correct one.