compelling

word

/kəmˈpɛɫɪŋ/
/kəmpˈɛlɪŋ/

Definition

Something so interesting, powerful, or convincing that it captures your attention or makes you believe in it.

Usage & Nuances

Often used to describe reasons, stories, arguments, or personalities that strongly attract interest or persuade. Common collocations: 'compelling evidence,' 'compelling story,' 'compelling reason.' More formal; rarely used for physical things.

Example Sentences

The book’s story was truly compelling.

basic

If you want to convince people, you’ll need a more compelling argument.

natural

She gave a compelling reason for missing the meeting.

basic

We needed some compelling evidence to solve the case.

basic

His speech was so compelling that everyone stopped to listen.

natural

That movie was compelling from start to finish—I couldn’t look away.

natural