What is a rhetorical question?

A rhetorical question is a figure of speech used primarily for persuasive or impactful effect rather than to elicit a direct answer from the audience. By posing a rhetorical question, the speaker prompts the listener to think more deeply about a topic, often leading them to a conclusion or reinforcing a point. This type of question is typically aimed at making a statement or provoking thought rather than gathering information or prompting discussion.

Other choices describe scenarios that do not align with the concept of a rhetorical question. For instance, a question intended to solicit an answer focuses on extracting information, while one that requires multiple responses suggests a need for interactive dialogue. Additionally, a question with an obvious answer might be a rhetorical question, but the defining feature is its purpose and impact, not merely its obviousness.