We had to prevail upon him to accept that offer.

Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word closest in meaning to the underlined phrase "prevail upon" in the sentence: "We had to prevail upon him to accept that offer."

Explain the concept: The phrasal verb "prevail upon" (or "prevail on") means to successfully persuade someone to do something, usually after some effort or resistance. It suggests convincing, not compelling by force.

Go through the options:

• A. cajole: This means to persuade by flattery or sweet talk. It is close, but it describes a specific method (coaxing with flattery), which the sentence does not suggest.
• B. overrule: This means to reject or set aside a decision by authority. It does not mean to persuade, so it is wrong.
• C. persuade: This means to convince someone to do something through reasoning or appeal. It matches "prevail upon" directly and is the most general and accurate synonym.
• D. force: This means to compel by physical or coercive means. "Prevail upon" does not carry that sense, so it is wrong.

Identify the answer: The sentence becomes "We had to persuade him to accept that offer," which keeps the original meaning exactly.

Tip: In "nearest in meaning" questions, test each option by substituting it into the sentence. Choose the most general and accurate synonym, not one that adds extra shades of meaning (like flattery in "cajole"). Also remember that "prevail upon / prevail on" = persuade or induce.