Word of the Day: Exhortation.

NOUN
1. An address or communication emphatically urging someone to do something.

Example Sentences.
1. "No amount of exhortation can convince Lacy to break the rules."
2. "The teachers signaled the end of recess with a verbal exhortation and three short claps."
3. "When he grabs something he shouldn't, my dog usually heeds my stern exhortation to 'drop it!'"

Word Origin.
Latin, late 14th century

"Exhortation" can be easily confused with "extortion." Both words concern an attempt to get something from someone, but an exhortation is more of an emotional or persuasive appeal, while extortion involves force or threats.