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
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human-interest stories.
—
Jen Juneau, PEOPLE, 5 Oct. 2025
The lawsuit argues the messages violate the First Amendment, which prohibits the government from compelling speech.
—Shannon Bond, NPR, 5 Oct. 2025
Meanwhile, the steep curve, solid fundamentals, and favorable tax treatment offer compelling reasons to stay invested in municipal bonds.
—Paul Malloy, Fortune, 4 Oct. 2025
Their latest album has been lauded for its exploration of identity and resilience, further solidifying their reputation as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music.
—Arkansas Online, 28 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for compelling
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Jen Juneau, PEOPLE, 5 Oct. 2025
The lawsuit argues the messages violate the First Amendment, which prohibits the government from compelling speech.
—Shannon Bond, NPR, 5 Oct. 2025
Meanwhile, the steep curve, solid fundamentals, and favorable tax treatment offer compelling reasons to stay invested in municipal bonds.
—Paul Malloy, Fortune, 4 Oct. 2025
Their latest album has been lauded for its exploration of identity and resilience, further solidifying their reputation as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music.
—Arkansas Online, 28 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for compelling
Cite this Entry
“Compelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compelling. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.
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