convincing

adjective

con·​vinc·​ing kən-ˈvin(t)-siŋ 

1

: satisfying or assuring by argument or proof

a convincing test of a new product

2

: having power to convince of the truth, rightness, or reality of something : plausible

told a convincing story

convincingly

kən-ˈvin(t)-siŋ-lē 

adverb

convincingness noun

Synonyms

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

Choose the Right Synonym for convincing

valid, sound, cogent, convincing, telling mean having such force as to compel serious attention and usually acceptance.

valid implies being supported by objective truth or generally accepted authority.

a valid reason for being absent

a valid marriage

sound implies a basis of flawless reasoning or of solid grounds.

a sound proposal for reviving the economy

cogent may stress either weight of sound argument and evidence or lucidity of presentation.

the prosecutor's cogent summation won over the jury

convincing suggests a power to overcome doubt, opposition, or reluctance to accept.

a convincing argument for welfare reform

telling stresses an immediate and crucial effect striking at the heart of a matter.

a telling example of bureaucratic waste

Examples of convincing in a Sentence

Your argument isn't very convincing.

They make a convincing case for reform.

There is no convincing evidence to support his theory.

Recent Examples on the Web

But the new season is also a more confident and convincing version of itself. —Alison Herman, Variety, 30 Oct. 2024

While the memes are varied, there are some trends across them, including jokes about Timothée Chalamet not being a convincing Timothée Chalamet lookalike: Passport: Explore the finest destinations and experiences around the world in the Forbes Passport newsletter. —Callum Booth, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

This Sunday will see the undefeated Vikings hosting the Lions with Detroit coming off a convincing victory over the Cowboys. —Andy Scholes, CNN, 17 Oct. 2024

Direct drive sim racing wheel bases are often preferred by enthusiasts because the steering wheel is connected directly to an electric motor, instead of using gears or belts, producing more torque, which creates more convincing feedback effects for a driver. —Andrew Liszewski, The Verge, 11 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

convincing

adjective

con·​vinc·​ing kən-ˈvin(t)-siŋ 

: causing one to believe or agree

convincingly

-siŋ-lē 

adverb