Synonyms for

Compelling

Verb / kʌˈmpelɪŋ / Another word for compelling — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Compelling means having a powerful and irresistible effect or influence.

Synonyms & similar words

compel oblige obligate persuasive forceful captivating convincing irresistible engaging riveting enthralling intriguing spellbinding fascinating absorbing gripping impressive powerful potent impactful effective credible authoritative

Synonyms by register

Formal

persuasive cogent convincing forceful

Informal

captivating gripping absorbing fascinating

Literary

irresistible enchanting alluring

Antonyms

unconvincing weak uninteresting dull boring unpersuasive

Common collocations

  • compelling argument
  • compelling case
  • compelling evidence
  • compelling story
  • compelling reason
  • compelling performance
  • compelling read

Word family

noun compulsion
verb compel
adjective compelling
adverb compellingly

Usage note

Often used to describe arguments, stories, or evidence that are so strong they demand attention or belief. It implies a powerful, almost irresistible quality.

Example sentences

  1. The compelling story made me cry.
  2. The evidence was so compelling that the jury had no choice but to find the defendant guilty.
  3. Her singing was so compelling that I had to stop what I was doing and listen.
  4. The argument was so compelling that I changed my mind.
  5. The speech was so compelling that the audience gave a standing ovation.

Quotes

  • What is compelling about the Georgian language is its strangeness.
  • The most compelling thing about making art is the process of actually creating something.
  • The most compelling reason to try something new is that it might turn out to be the next big thing.

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