compelling

/kəmˈpɛlɪŋ/

/kəmˈpɛlɪŋ/

Other forms: compellingly

Compelling means attractive, or irresistible, or really, really convincing. You know your argument for backpacking across Europe is compelling when your parents not only let you go but also pay for all your expenses.

To compel is to drive or force into action –– the way the fear of being grounded might compel you to come home before your curfew. A compelling argument compels you to agree with its logic –– it's irresistible. If you decide to run for class president, you'll need to write a compelling speech about why students should vote for you.

Definitions of compelling

1. adjective

   capable of arousing and holding the attention
   synonyms: absorbing, engrossing, fascinating, gripping, riveting

   interesting

   arousing or holding the attention
2. adjective

   tending to persuade by forcefulness of argument
   “new and compelling evidence”

   synonyms:

   persuasive

   intended or having the power to induce action or belief
3. adjective

   driving or forcing
   “compelling ambition”

   synonyms:

   impactful, powerful

   having great power or force or potency or effect