What defines the term "persuasiveness" in a debate context?

In the context of debate, persuasiveness primarily refers to the strength of arguments backed by evidence. This is essential because a persuasive debater effectively convinces the audience or judges of their position through logical reasoning and credible data supporting their claims. The focus is on the quality and relevance of the evidence presented, which enhances the overall argument's credibility and impact.

When arguments are well-supported by evidence, they resonate more deeply with the audience, making them more likely to be convinced by the debater’s point of view. This is crucial in debates where the objective is to sway opinions and assert the validity of a perspective, making strong evidence a cornerstone of effective persuasion.

Other factors like entertainment value, volume of voice, or merely the quantity of arguments presented can contribute to a debate, but they do not inherently define persuasiveness. A debate can be entertaining or loud, or include numerous arguments, yet it may still lack the rigor needed to persuade effectively if those arguments are not substantiated by solid evidence.