unconvincing

British  

/ ˌʌnkənˈvɪnsɪŋ /

adjective

1. not credible or plausible

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Explanation

Anything that's unconvincing is unlikely or hard to believe. Your unconvincing story about being abducted by aliens probably won't persuade your teacher to give you an extension on your term paper. Your unconvincing impersonation of President Ronald Reagan might sound more like John Wayne, and an unconvincing alibi won't get a suspect off the hook if a detective thinks she's guilty. The adjective unconvincing comes from convince, "cause to believe in the truth of something," and its root that means "to conquer." If you haven't convinced someone of some fact or truth, you've been unconvincing.

Example Sentences

By contrast, Tyson’s subsequent aria revealing his own old trauma is pat and unconvincing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 2, 2026

The morale-boosting display, featuring five tries, was just what Ireland needed after an emphatic first-round loss to champions France and an unconvincing win over Italy that followed high-profile defeats during November's Autumn International campaign.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

Harry Brook's side were unconvincing in wins against minnows Nepal, Scotland and finally Italy, who were making their World Cup debut.

From Barron's • Feb. 20, 2026

But it was another unconvincing day for England, who progress after a final-ball win over Nepal, a defeat by West Indies and two nervy wins against Scotland and Italy.

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2026

“Of course it is, mi vida,” said Celia, wiping her eyes with the cloth and putting on an unconvincing smile.

From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer

Related Words

• flimsy
• implausible
• inconclusive
• questionable
• unbelievable