Definition of convincingnext

convincing

2 of 3

noun

as in conversion
the act of reasoning or pleading with someone to accept a belief or course of action it will take a great deal of convincing to make them see our point of view

Synonyms & Similar Words

convincing

3 of 3

verb

present participle of convince

Synonym Chooser

How is the word convincing different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of convincing are cogent, sound, telling, and valid. While all these words mean "having such force as to compel serious attention and usually acceptance," convincing suggests a power to overcome doubt, opposition, or reluctance to accept.

a convincing argument for welfare reform

Where would cogent be a reasonable alternative to convincing?

In some situations, the words cogent and convincing are roughly equivalent. However, cogent may stress either weight of sound argument and evidence or lucidity of presentation.

the prosecutor's cogent summation won over the jury

When would sound be a good substitute for convincing?

While in some cases nearly identical to convincing, sound implies a basis of flawless reasoning or of solid grounds.

a sound proposal for reviving the economy

When can telling be used instead of convincing?

The synonyms telling and convincing are sometimes interchangeable, but telling stresses an immediate and crucial effect striking at the heart of a matter.

a telling example of bureaucratic waste

When is valid a more appropriate choice than convincing?

The words valid and convincing can be used in similar contexts, but valid implies being supported by objective truth or generally accepted authority.

a valid reason for being absent
a valid marriage

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of convincing
Adjective
Conductor Nathalie Stutzmann made a convincing case for an unwieldy composition whose autographed score was given by Wagner's daughter-in-law, Winifried, to Hitler and lost in the destruction that ended World War II. ABC News, 4 Aug. 2026 Scammers can disguise links or create convincing copies of real websites. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 4 Aug. 2026
Verb
Former chancellor Sharp told the Star-Telegram in a November 2021 interview that the law school’s success since being acquired by A&M in 2013 played a role in convincing the university to expand its presence in Fort Worth. Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Aug. 2026 That entailed creating a sizzle reel with a lot of flashy effects in hopes of convincing Universal to get behind the new budget and schedule. Geoffrey Bunting, IndieWire, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for convincing
Recent Examples of Synonyms for convincing
Adjective
  • That said, together, the synergy of Venus and Pluto can make an attraction feel more compelling, or perhaps a conversation more intimate than usual.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 10 Aug. 2026
  • Beyond gaudy numbers and a long scroll of awards and achievements, Nelson was one of the most colorful and compelling coaches to grace the Bay Area in any professional sport.
    Carl Steward, Mercury News, 9 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • This includes occupancy rate, rapid conversion, case management, and being active in the community.
    Gabriela Vidal, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026
  • However, there may be some situations where Roth conversion may not be the most efficient strategy.
    Joel Barjenbruch, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Zoox successfully navigated the regulations by persuading the NHTSA to allow temporary permission.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Aug. 2026
  • This broader strategy also helps explain why persuading countries to avoid Chinese AI will likely prove considerably more difficult than Washington’s earlier campaign against Huawei and ZTE.
    Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 2 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • In case of a nuclear attack on the US, nuclear forensics experts will have to investigate the incident and arrive at conclusive proof of where the material originated from.
    Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 31 July 2026
  • So, a strange ending for one of Netflix’s best shows, but three seasons and a conclusive movie are now in Netflix’s catalog for anyone to watch.
    Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026
Noun
  • Plan creative variations for persuasion targets, turnout audiences and different demographic groups so targeting is paired with relevant messaging.
    Kris Qiu, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
  • VisionSpring relied on persuasion and pilot schemes and built a hyper-efficient 15-minute screening protocol to keep production lines moving.
    Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 31 July 2026
Verb
  • That said, meeting the basic standard for forgiveness also involves satisfying several other important requirements, too.
    Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026
  • The Scriptures and textbook are infinitely fresh guidebooks to our unique place in Love’s ever-satisfying divine adventure.
    Tony Lobl, Christian Science Monitor, 4 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Indonesia’s Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency said August and September are expected to be the most critical months as dry vegetation and strong winds create favorable conditions for fires to spread rapidly.
    ABC News, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026
  • For someone who is dogmatic, or has a strong commitment to evangelism, this may not be satisfactory.
    R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 10 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • The Gold-Studded Structured Crossbody features a structured shape, luxe gold hardware and eye-catching studded details, bringing just the right amount of personality to any look.
    ABC News, ABC News, 8 Aug. 2026
  • The brand has officially declared August to be Fine Art Month, and to celebrate, Michaels is bringing all sorts of new events, classes, and fine art products to its stores throughout the month.
    Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Convincing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/convincing. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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