What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
compelling
Example
The movie had a compelling storyline that kept me on the edge of my seat. [compelling: adjective]
Example
The evidence presented was compelling and convinced the jury of the defendant's guilt. [compelling: adjective]
convincing
Example
The lawyer's argument was convincing and swayed the judge in favor of his client. [convincing: adjective]
Example
The data presented in the report was convincing enough to convince the board to approve the project. [convincing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Convincing is more commonly used than compelling in everyday language. Convincing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while compelling is less common and refers to a more specific type of influence.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between compelling and convincing?
Both compelling and convincing can be used in formal and informal contexts, but convincing is more commonly used in academic or professional settings due to its emphasis on logic and evidence.
