ENGLISH
REFERENCE

compelling

v.
C1 Advanced Oxford US //kəmˈpɛɫɪŋ// UK //kəmpˈɛlɪŋ// com·pelling

v. so strong or interesting that you cannot ignore it. You use this to describe a reason that makes you act or a story that keeps your attention.

v. evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerful and irresistible way; or providing a reason that is difficult to refute.


SIMPLE

The lawyer presented a compelling argument for her client.

CONTEXTUAL

The documentary offers such a compelling look at climate change that many viewers felt moved to change their daily habits immediately.

COMPLEX

Despite the lack of physical evidence, the prosecutor built a compelling narrative based on circumstantial details that eventually convinced the jury of the defendant's guilt.

Synonyms
Origin

By surface analysis, compel + -ing.

Usage

Commonly modifies nouns like 'argument', 'evidence', 'reason', or 'story'.

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