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Synonyms

compelling

American  
[kuhm-pel-ing] / kəmˈpɛl ɪŋ /

adjective

  1. tending to compel, as to force or push toward a course of action; overpowering.

    There were compelling reasons for their divorce.

  2. having a powerful and irresistible effect; requiring acute admiration, attention, or respect.

    a man of compelling integrity; a compelling drama.


compelling British  
/ kəmˈpɛlɪŋ /

adjective

  1. arousing or denoting strong interest, esp admiring interest

  2. (of an argument, evidence, etc) convincing

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • uncompelling adjective

Etymology

Origin of compelling

First recorded in 1490–1500; compel + -ing 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Jupiter has nearly 100 known moons, but Europa continues to stand out as one of the most compelling.

From Science Daily

To some, this broadening of focus makes D-Wave a more compelling contender in the quantum space.

From Barron's

That’s an even more compelling dynamic in the current economy, which is growing at a much faster-than-anticipated clip and is likely to extend at least a portion of that momentum into the coming year.

From Barron's

To some, this broadening of focus makes D-Wave a more compelling contender in the quantum space.

From Barron's

SGH and Steel Dynamics said in a statement Monday, “The proposed acquisition would deliver compelling value for BSL’s shareholders, and significant benefits for BSL’s other stakeholders, including team members and local communities.”

From The Wall Street Journal