compelling

adjective

com·​pel·​ling kəm-ˈpe-liŋ 

: that compels: such as

a

: forceful

a compelling personality

a compelling desire

b

: demanding attention

for compelling reasons

The novel was so compelling that I couldn't put it down.

c

: convincing

no compelling evidence

compellingly adverb

Synonyms

• cogent
• conclusive
• convincing
• decisive
• effective
• forceful
• persuasive
• satisfying
• strong
• telling

Examples of compelling in a Sentence

The novel was so compelling that I couldn't put it down.

He made a compelling argument.

I would need a very compelling reason to leave my job.

She had a compelling need to share what she had heard.

Recent Examples on the Web

That said, there's a compelling case to stick with it. —PCMAG, 7 Nov. 2024

Defining a compelling vision, however, is only the beginning. —Brent Gleeson, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Addressing each of those dire impacts can necessarily mean more time working around the clock, and less time crafting a compelling, outward-facing narrative. —Chris Morris, Fortune, 5 Nov. 2024

So in 2020, THR moved away from writing up the overnights in all but the most compelling of cases. —James Hibberd, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of compel

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

compelling

adjective

: that compels : tending to demand action or to convince

a compelling need for disclosure

a compelling argument