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.

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compelling British  

/ kəmˈpɛlɪŋ /

adjective

1. arousing or denoting strong interest, esp admiring interest

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

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Other Word Forms

• uncompelling adjective

Etymology

Origin of compelling

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

Example Sentences

Unless you’re a big soccer or golf fan, there’s nothing compelling at the moment.

From MarketWatch

The football was often compelling, the city was behind him, but at decision-making level the relationship could not be sustained.

From BBC

Greg James is, on paper, one of the most compelling candidates.

From BBC

Perhaps more telling, viewers found Sora-generated videos and those from other platforms less than compelling.

From Los Angeles Times

"It has a really compelling interest to do what it can to contribute to de-escalation efforts."

From BBC

Related Words

• fascinating