Is 'compelling' formal or informal?

What's the difference between 'compelling' and 'convincing'?

How is 'compelling' different from 'convincing'?

How do I use 'compelling' in a sentence?

Can 'compelling' describe both people and evidence?

Is 'compelling' a common word?

Is 'compelling' common in academic writing?

← Dictionary

compelling

/kəmˈpɛlɪŋ/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Making you pay attention because it is interesting or strong.

Her speech was compelling and convincing.
The data offers compelling evidence.
His story is very compelling.

Adinary Nuance

Near-neighbors: 'compelling' is stronger than 'convincing' and more urgent than 'interesting'. Use it when you need to emphasize powerful attraction or necessity. Writers choose 'compelling' over milder terms to stress intensity and focus.

In other languages

Spanish: Completamente atractivo o necesario
Japanese: 強い興味を引く
Korean: 강력하고 매력적인
Vietnamese: Rất thuyết phục
Chinese: 引人注目的

Common phrases

compelling argumentcompelling evidencecompelling story

Synonyms

convincing powerful engaging gripping absorbing

Related words

evidence interest argument story belief

Frequently asked questions

Is 'compelling' formal or informal?: Is 'compelling' formal or informal?
What's the difference between 'compelling' and 'convincing'?: How is 'compelling' different from 'convincing'?
How do I use 'compelling' in a sentence?: Can 'compelling' describe both people and evidence?
Is 'compelling' a common word?: Is 'compelling' common in academic writing?