# 27. Rhetorical manipulation ## 27.5. Methodology/Refinements/Sub-species ### 27.5.3. Attacking Approach #### 27.5.3.8. Insinuation The implanting of an idea in the minds of an audience by asserting the opposite of the intended message. For example, in a political debate, a candidate may say: "Now, I would never suggest that my opponent believes himself to be above the law." But of course the candidate does mean exactly that and now he has put the idea in the minds of the audience, while leaving open the possibility for "plausible deniability". This can be effective, because psychologically, most people remember the accusation better than they do the denial. One can thereby taint the image of one's opponents without ever making a direct charge or accusation. The use of euphemisms and ambiguity are related methods of rhetorical insinuation. Phrases like "collateral damage" convert the reality of horrendous civilian casualties in war into an apparently innocuous and emotionless phrase. ***Parent:** [[Attacking Approaches]]*