compelling
adjective
com·pel·ling
kəm-ˈpe-liŋ 
: that compels: such as
a
: forceful
a compelling personality
a compelling desire
b
: demanding attention
for compelling reasons
The novel was so compelling that I couldn't put it down.
c
: convincing
no compelling evidence
compellingly
adverb
Examples of compelling in a Sentence
The novel was so compelling that I couldn't put it down.
He made a compelling argument.
I would need a very compelling reason to leave my job.
She had a compelling need to share what she had heard.
Recent Examples on the Web
Spark’s most compelling portrait of the intellectual monster is not to be found in any of her novels or short stories, however.
—
Literary Hub, 9 June 2026
Thitikul is still seeking her first major championship; her chase for that elusive title is one of the most compelling storylines in her sport.
—Sean Gregory, Time, 9 June 2026
That reality is what makes regionality in music so compelling nowadays.
—Olivier Lafontant, Pitchfork, 9 June 2026
With networks and streamers seeking to create compelling content, many have found the answer in true stories.
—Stuart Miller, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for compelling
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Literary Hub, 9 June 2026
Thitikul is still seeking her first major championship; her chase for that elusive title is one of the most compelling storylines in her sport.
—Sean Gregory, Time, 9 June 2026
That reality is what makes regionality in music so compelling nowadays.
—Olivier Lafontant, Pitchfork, 9 June 2026
With networks and streamers seeking to create compelling content, many have found the answer in true stories.
—Stuart Miller, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for compelling
Cite this Entry
“Compelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compelling. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
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