rhetorically

Meanings

1. 1
   adv

   in the manner of a rhetorical question that doesn't require an answer

   'What can be done?' they asked rhetorically.

2. 2
   adv

   In a rhetorical manner.

   Bronx councilmember Rev. Wendell Foster rhetorically asked city council president Andrew Stein if he could cast two votes, being of "divided mind."

3. 3
   adv

   With reference to rhetoric.

Etymology

From Middle English retorycally; equivalent to rhetorical + -ly.