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

And perhaps that’s what makes this message from Dr. Daniel Crosby so compelling— these three words matter so much within the context of our personal and financial growth because these aren’t just three nice ideas that give us a momentary sense of pleasure. —Tim Maurer, Forbes, 15 Dec. 2024

It’s been one of the greatest gifts of my life and career to work on material, which is both artistically of the highest level, but also philosophically and politically compelling and relevant to the times. —Carita Rizzo, Deadline, 14 Dec. 2024

Still five days shy of turning 23, Billie Eilish commanded the stage at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale on Friday, Dec. 13, like the seasoned veteran she’s become three albums deep into establishing herself among the more compelling voices of her generation. —Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 14 Dec. 2024

One of the most compelling ways to infuse a bedroom with character is to be fearless when trying new trends. —Colleen Sullivan, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Dec. 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