compelling
kum-PEL-ing
/kəmˈpɛl.ɪŋ/
Evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way.
Implies an urgent or magnetic quality that forces attention or belief.
The story behind the word. Compelling shares its ultimate Latin ancestor with 'propel' and 'repel'. It springs from 'com-' (thoroughly) and 'pellere' (to drive), literally describing an argument or narrative that drives your mind forward with inescapable force.
Word relationships
- captivating: Captivating focuses on charm and delight, whereas compelling stresses an urgent, inescapable force.
- uninteresting: Lacking the power to capture or hold attention.
Commonly confused with
- coercive: Coercive uses physical threats or force, whereas compelling wins assent through irresistible appeal or truth.
Word family
- compel (verb): To force or drive someone to do something.
- compellingly (adverb): In a powerfully persuasive manner.
Collocations
- compelling story
- compelling evidence
- compelling reason
- compelling argument
Example sentences
- "The novel offers a compelling portrait of courage under fire that keeps readers hooked until the final page." Literary analysis
- "They offered a compelling vision for renewable energy that won over reluctant investors." Business pitch
Memory hook
COMPELLing stories PELT you with continuous drama. Drives attention forward irresistibly.
When not to use
Do not use for routine instructions or minor factual observations.
Fun facts
- The Latin root 'pellere' is responsible for words as varied as 'pulse', 'impulse', and 'repulsive'.
Related words
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