What is the Difference Between Expository and Persuasive?

The main difference between expository and persuasive writing lies in their purpose and style. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

Expository Writing:

1. Aims to explain, inform, clarify, analyze, instruct, or describe a subject matter based on facts and personal observations.
2. Requires the use of specific evidence, examples, and statistics, without giving personal opinions.
3. Has a formal and detached tone.
4. Explains factual, non-debatable information.

Persuasive Writing:

1. Aims to present a point of view and sway the opinion of the readers.
2. Requires the use of specific evidence, examples, and statistics, as well as personal opinions to persuade the reader.
3. Has an informal and personal tone, often appealing to both emotion and reason.
4. Leads to the writer's opinion on a debatable topic.

In summary, expository writing focuses on presenting information and explaining a topic, while persuasive writing tries to convince the reader to adopt a specific point of view. The tone of expository writing is formal and detached, whereas persuasive writing is informal and personal. Both styles require the use of evidence and examples to support the writer's arguments, but persuasive writing also includes personal opinions.

Comparative Table: Expository vs Persuasive

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between expository and persuasive writing:

Expository writing aims to provide information and explain a topic, while persuasive writing tries to present a point of view and sway the opinion of the readers. The tone of persuasive essays is personal and informal, whereas the tone of expository essays is formal and rather cold. Additionally, there is a call for action at the end of a persuasive essay, whereas expository writing does not have such a call.