This is not my first experience with the term rhetoric. It was used quite frequently in my English 101 class, which focused on the study of language. Having some experience with the term I feel I can enjoy Foss's definition because it covers all aspects, not just the written form. Foss defines rhetoric as a term that captures processes including: how we perceive, what we know, what we experience, and how we act, which are the results of our own symbol use and that of those around us. Ross states that "rhetoric is the human use of symbols to communicate". To me rhetoric is simply human expression. Expression that is communicated through human interaction. In order for humans to have a basis for understanding they have to share common symbols, thus the term rhetoric comes to play. Rhetoric goes beyond language; it incorporates meaning.
Google Definitions:
Skill in using language effectively and persuasively.
study of the technique and rules for using language effectively (especially in public speaking)
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