compelling
Evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way
Examples
In a meeting
“She made a compelling case for investing in employee training.”
Over coffee
“That was such a compelling story—I couldn't put the book down.”
Why this word
convincing
compelling emphasizes irresistible force or captivation, convincing just means persuasive
persuasive
persuasive focuses on argumentation, compelling suggests powerfully demanding attention or acceptance
interesting
interesting is weak and vague, compelling means forcefully capturing attention or belief
Usage tip
Use to describe arguments, stories, or evidence that strongly persuade or captivate
Etymology
Latin 'compellere' from 'com-' (together) + 'pellere' (to drive)
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Related words
persuade
Cause someone to believe or do something through reasoning or argument
rhetoric
The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing
rebut
Claim or prove that evidence or an accusation is false
cajole
Persuade someone to do something by sustained coaxing or flattery
persuasive
Able to convince others through reasoning or argument
discredit
To harm the reputation or credibility of something or someone