And at no point is the music merely rhetorical.

Yet to Russians, Washington seems to act as if the disappointment and nationalism are merely rhetorical or temporary.

Several of the friendly but phlegmatic crew here, dressed in blue shirts and dark ties, consider a diner's first request for an item merely rhetorical.

Some experts believe the new approach is merely rhetorical at times.

And third, work with the West in positive, practical, not merely rhetorical, steps toward diplomatic solution to these regional disputes around the world.

For Nick, "liberty" is merely rhetorical: it is, as he says, what he's "talking about."

Hard work, creativity and a willingness to take practical, not merely rhetorical, steps are needed.

Parliament' s regular condemnations are merely rhetorical and ineffective.

What does this really mean, and is the current fashion for quality merely rhetorical gloss or does it have more substance?

The last question, as any parent realizes, is merely rhetorical and part of a larger ritual.