compelling
/kəmˈpelɪŋ/ (bre, ipa) · /kəmˈpelɪŋ/ (ame, ipa) · /kəm-ˈpe-liŋ/ (ame, mw)
compelling — adjective
- compellingpositive
- more compellingcomparative
- most compellingsuperlative
1. Used to describe a reason, argument, or piece of evidence so forceful that peopl
Used to describe a reason, argument, or piece of evidence so forceful that people naturally accept the conclusion it points to.
The lawyer presented compelling evidence that proved her client was innocent.
compelling evidence + that-clause
Priya found a compelling reason to leave her job and start a new business.
No compelling argument could convince the council to raise taxes.
The data from the hospital tests was compelling enough to change the treatment plan.
Diego’s research offered compelling proof that the ancient city had existed.
- convincing
Very similar; 'convincing' slightly more about the personal effect on the hearer, while 'compelling' suggests the evidence itself carries force.
- persuasive
Focuses on the ability to change someone’s mind; 'persuasive' can apply to a person, which 'compelling' in this sense cannot.
- cogent
More formal and intellectual; describes arguments that are clear and logically well-structured.
- weak
An argument that fails to convince due to lack of supporting logic or evidence.
- unconvincing
Direct opposite; an unconvincing reason does not make anyone believe it.
文法句型
compelling + noun (evidence / reason / argument)
be + compelling + enough + to-infinitive
用法筆記
Frequently pairs with nouns of logic or proof: evidence, reason, argument, case, proof. Avoid using for emotional impact — that belongs to the EXCITING sense.
常見錯誤
❌ 'She gave a compelling speech full of jokes.' ✈ 'She gave a compelling argument supported by strong data.' — The STRONG sense describes logical force, not how enjoyable a speech is.
2. So absorbing, thrilling, or fascinating that you cannot stop watching, reading,
So absorbing, thrilling, or fascinating that you cannot stop watching, reading, or listening.
The documentary was so compelling that I watched the whole thing in one sitting.
so + compelling + that-clause for result
A compelling mystery story keeps readers guessing until the very last page.
The actor gave a compelling performance that moved the audience to tears.
What makes Yara’s paintings so compelling is the way she uses light and shadow.
Nadia writes compelling short stories about life in a small fishing village.
- gripping
Stronger emotional pull; 'gripping' suggests suspense or tension, while 'compelling' is broader.
- fascinating
Focuses more on intellectual interest; 'fascinating' can describe any topic, whereas 'compelling' implies active engagement.
- engrossing
Suggests complete absorption; slightly more formal than 'compelling'.
文法句型
compelling + noun (story / film / performance)
so + compelling + that-clause
用法筆記
Typically describes media or performances — films, books, speeches, stories, music, or art. Not used directly for people (e.g. “a compelling man” is unnatural in this sense).
常見錯誤
❌ 'He is a compelling speaker because he tells jokes.' ✈ 'He gave a compelling speech about climate change that held everyone’s attention.' — Use 'compelling' for the speech, not the person; the EXCITING sense describes the thing, not the speaker’s character.
3. Describing a force, desire, or need that is so strong you cannot fight against i
Describing a force, desire, or need that is so strong you cannot fight against it.
Ravi felt a compelling urge to help the injured bird he found in the park.
compelling urge + to-infinitive
The rising flood waters created a compelling need for residents to leave their homes.
There was a compelling force that pulled the two characters toward each other.
Hana could not ignore the compelling desire to travel and see the world.
- irresistible
Nearly identical; 'irresistible' is more common in everyday speech, especially for temptation.
- overwhelming
Stronger in intensity; 'overwhelming' can be too much to handle, while 'compelling' suggests a driving direction.
- urgent
Emphasises time pressure; 'urgent' carries a sense that action is needed now.
- resistible
Can be fought against or ignored; the direct opposite of a compelling force.
- weak
A weak desire is easy to ignore, unlike a compelling one.
文法句型
compelling + noun (desire / need / urge / force)
a compelling + noun + to-infinitive
用法筆記
Describes internal drives or external forces that override resistance. Frequently modifies desire, urge, need, force, or sense of duty. Less common in everyday speech than in literary or formal writing.
常見錯誤
❌ 'I had a compelling need to watch that movie.' (sounds odd for entertainment) ✈ 'I had a compelling need to help the stranded family.' — This sense works best with serious or urgent situations, not casual preferences.