forceful

[fawrs-fuhl, fohrs-]

adjective

1. full of force; powerful; vigorous; effective.

   a forceful plea for peace.

   Synonyms: telling, cogent

2. acting or driven with force.

forceful

/ ˈfɔːsfʊl /

adjective

1. powerful

2. persuasive or effective

Other Word Forms

• forcefully adverb
• forcefulness noun
• unforceful adjective
• unforcefully adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of forceful¹

First recorded in 1565–75; force + -ful

Example Sentences

“He came with a forceful message and has made the argument forcefully.”

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In the title role, here not a Greek king but a politician seeking election, Mr. Strong was so forceful you could practically hear the stage groaning with each step he took.

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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent publicly promised Argentina “large and forceful” American support.

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On Wall Street, investors are now expecting that the new Fed chair will be forceful in bringing rates down.

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We’ve allowed some conservatives to make alliances with loathsome figures and permitted destructive currents of thought to flourish without appropriately forceful criticism or reproach.

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Related Words

• cogent 
• commanding 
• compelling 
• convincing 
• dynamic 
• energetic 
• forcible 
• persuasive 
• strong 
• vehement 
• vigorous 
• violent