A rhetorical question is a figure of speech in which a question is asked for effect rather than to elicit an answer. It is often used to make a point or to persuade the audience by prompting them to think about the topic. For example, asking, "Isn't it time we took action?" encourages reflection on the importance of taking action without expecting a direct response. Rhetorical questions are commonly found in speeches, literature, and everyday conversation. They can emphasize a statement or highlight a particular issue, making them a powerful tool in communication. Famous speakers like Martin Luther King Jr. often employed rhetorical questions to engage their audience and provoke thought.