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

While many Arduino components are available individually, there is a compelling argument for buying additional starter kits, even for those people who have gained some experience. —Bob Beacham, Popular Science, 22 Nov. 2024

In fact, for many business owners, especially those looking to maintain control and profitability, there are compelling reasons to explore alternatives. —Melissa Houston, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024

Well ballad was proof that there are still few mainstream country singers more compelling in a solo-acoustic format. —Jonathan Bernstein, Rolling Stone, 20 Nov. 2024

The series also marks a compelling early role for Swearine, whose Janet starts out symbolically important but becomes increasingly crucial to the story. —Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 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