compelling
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Powerfully persuasive or convincing: Having a strong, often irresistible, effect that makes belief or agreement very likely.
- Demanding attention or interest: So interesting, exciting, or intense that it captures and holds one's focus completely.
- Driving or forcing action: Exerting a strong, urgent pressure that compels a particular response or course of action.
Usage and Examples
As a persuasive argument or evidence:
- The prosecutor presented a compelling case to the jury.
- Her book offers a compelling argument for social reform.
As something that captures attention:
- The documentary told a compelling story of human survival.
- He has a compelling presence on stage.
As a driving or urgent force:
- She felt a compelling need to tell the truth.
- There were compelling reasons for his sudden departure.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
"Compelling reason": A reason so strong and convincing that it necessitates a specific action or justifies a decision.
- The safety of the passengers was the most compelling reason to cancel the flight.
"Compelling interest" (often in legal/formal contexts): A public or governmental interest of such overriding importance that it can justify limitations on individual rights.
- The state must demonstrate a compelling interest to justify such a regulation.
"Morally compelling": An argument or principle that carries significant ethical force and demands consideration.
- The plea for humanitarian aid was morally compelling.
Variants and Related Words
Compel (verb): To force or oblige someone to do something; to bring about by force or pressure.
- The law compels employers to provide a safe workplace.
Compellingly (adverb): In a compelling manner.
- She argued her point compellingly.
Synonyms
- Persuasive: Good at persuading someone to do or believe something.
- Convincing: Capable of causing someone to believe that something is true or real.
- Irresistible: Too attractive or appealing to be resisted.
- Cogent (especially for arguments): Clear, logical, and convincing.
- Entrancing: Capturing all one's attention; fascinating.
Antonyms
- Unconvincing: Failing to make someone believe that something is true or valid.
- Weak: Lacking the power to persuade or interest.
- Unpersuasive: Not good at influencing people's beliefs or actions.
- Uninteresting: Not arousing curiosity or interest.
Common Collocations and Phrases
- Compelling evidence
- Compelling narrative / story
- Compelling force
- Compelling need / desire
- Compelling vision
- Find something compelling
Adjective
- tending to persuade by forcefulness of argument
- new and compelling evidence
- driving or forcing
- compelling ambition