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Grammar fix

a compelling argument

persuasive argument

an argument or reason that is so convincing and forceful that it is hard to disagree with or ignore.

collocationC1occasional

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • She made a compelling argument for changing the company's remote work policy.communication
  • In my opinion, the speaker presented a compelling argument against increasing university tuition fees, as she highlighted both the economic and social impacts.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: a compelling argument (for/against something); make/present/offer a compelling argument

WrongShe gave a compelling argument.

RightShe made a compelling argument.

You MAKE an argument, not 'give' one.

Patterna compelling argument (for/against something); make/present/offer a compelling argument

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff She advanced a line of reasoning that was difficult to refute.

Natural She made a compelling argument.

'Advanced a line of reasoning difficult to refute' is academic; 'make a compelling argument' is natural.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • make a compelling argument
    make a compelling argumenta compelling casefind it compellingcompelling evidence

Don't confuse it

Unlike 'a strong argument' (which may just mean well-supported), 'a compelling argument' emphasizes that the argument is especially persuasive and difficult to ignore.

Try it in Daily Speak →