convincing

adjective

con·​vinc·​ing kən-ˈvin(t)-siŋ 

1

: satisfying or assuring by argument or proof

a convincing test of a new product

2

: having power to convince of the truth, rightness, or reality of something : plausible

told a convincing story

convincingly

kən-ˈvin(t)-siŋ-lē 

adverb

convincingness noun

Synonyms of convincing

• compelling
• conclusive
• strong

Choose the Right Synonym for convincing

valid, sound, cogent, convincing, telling mean having such force as to compel serious attention and usually acceptance.

valid implies being supported by objective truth or generally accepted authority.

a valid reason for being absent

a valid marriage

sound implies a basis of flawless reasoning or of solid grounds.

a sound proposal for reviving the economy

cogent may stress either weight of sound argument and evidence or lucidity of presentation.

the prosecutor's cogent summation won over the jury

convincing suggests a power to overcome doubt, opposition, or reluctance to accept.

a convincing argument for welfare reform

telling stresses an immediate and crucial effect striking at the heart of a matter.

a telling example of bureaucratic waste

Examples of convincing in a Sentence

Your argument isn't very convincing.

They make a convincing case for reform.

There is no convincing evidence to support his theory.

Recent Examples on the Web

After recording a convincing win in its first matchup with Denver, the Current fell flat in the second half of what had been a tight contest at Orlando. — Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 15 July 2026

Nolan floats a convincing psychological reason why this Odysseus subconsciously believes his duplicitous actions during the war deserve permanent exile from civilization. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026

This resulted not just in a convincing depiction of a supernatural creature but also a surprisingly tender one in keeping with the overall humanistic tone of the film. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 14 July 2026

France continues to be the tournament favorites, with a convincing win against Morocco in the last round. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for convincing

• evincing
• mincing
• rinsing
• wincing
• unconvincing

Kids Definition

convincing

adjective

con·​vinc·​ing kən-ˈvin(t)-siŋ 

: causing one to believe or agree

convincingly

-siŋ-lē 

adverb