a compelling idea

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a compelling idea' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any situation where you want to express that an idea is particularly powerful or persuasive. For example: "I had a compelling idea for a way to increase our profits, so I put it forward to the board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

It was a compelling idea.

The Guardian

And it helps organize one's thoughts around a compelling idea.

The New York Times

It's a compelling idea, and gives the mystery of her disappearance a sense of unreality.

The New Yorker

"This being Simon this was at 1.30am, but even then it was quite a compelling idea".

The Guardian

A similar document, he ventured, might offer a way forward for Mr Letta's government.This is a compelling idea.

The Economist

But it seems to be a compelling idea next to alternatives like permitting higher inflation and risking a dollar crisis.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Dear Henry, Although you may qualify, the fact that you are a postdoc, and that you work in Canada, makes it unlikely that you would win an R03 unless you have an outstanding record of accomplishment, a very compelling idea, and a first-rate application.

Science Magazine

Edward Said, a Jerusalem-born Palestinian-American scholar, caught the romance and pain of exile when he called it "a strangely compelling idea, but a terrible experience".

The Economist

I think it's a near-perfect execution of a very compelling idea: passive diary writing.

TechCrunch

Anti-essentialism, then, is an intellectually compelling idea, and a powerful resource in the cause of equality.

Comparative Migration Studies

"People are going to be really cautious or superstitious regarding getting on a second version of the Titanic, or it could be a really compelling idea for history buffs who really want to live the story or the legend behind it," Katz said.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "a compelling idea", support it with strong evidence and clear reasoning to maximize its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a compelling idea" as a subjective claim without providing objective reasons why the idea is compelling. Instead, explain the merits of the idea to let the audience decide.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a compelling idea" functions as a noun phrase, where 'compelling' modifies the noun 'idea'. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It serves to describe the quality of the idea as persuasive and interesting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

TechCrunch

12%

Huffington Post

9%

Less common in

The New Yorker

6%

Science

3%

Books

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a compelling idea" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote an idea that is persuasive, interesting, and worthy of consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. Its neutral register makes it versatile across various contexts, from news reporting and business to academic writing. To maximize its impact, ensure your ideas are well-supported by evidence. While common, avoid overuse or subjectivity without providing sufficient reasons why the idea is indeed compelling.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a persuasive concept

Replaces "compelling" with "persuasive", focusing on the idea's ability to convince.

a convincing notion

Substitutes "compelling" with "convincing", highlighting the idea's believability.

an engaging proposition

Uses "engaging" instead of "compelling", emphasizing the idea's ability to capture interest.

a fascinating concept

Replaces "compelling" with "fascinating", highlighting the captivating nature of the idea.

an intriguing thought

Uses "intriguing" instead of "compelling", focusing on the idea's mysterious or curious quality.

a powerful concept

Substitutes "compelling" with "powerful", emphasizing the idea's impact and influence.

a captivating suggestion

Replaces "compelling" with "captivating", highlighting the idea's ability to hold attention.

a gripping theory

Uses "gripping" instead of "compelling", focusing on the idea's ability to excite and engross.

a noteworthy innovation

Substitutes "compelling idea" with "noteworthy innovation", switching from general concept to one which is new and impactful.

an attractive viewpoint

Replaces "compelling" with "attractive", highlighting the pleasing or desirable aspects of the idea.

FAQs

How can I effectively present "a compelling idea"?

To effectively present "a compelling idea", ensure you have strong supporting evidence, clear and concise explanations, and address potential counterarguments. Tailor your presentation to your audience to maximize its persuasive impact.

What are some alternatives to "a compelling idea"?

You can use alternatives like "a persuasive concept", "a convincing notion", or "an engaging proposition" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a compelling idea" in formal writing?

Yes, "a compelling idea" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a professional and clear way to describe an idea that is persuasive and well-reasoned. However, make sure you provide specific details about why the idea is compelling.

What makes an idea "compelling"?

An idea is "compelling" when it is persuasive, interesting, and well-supported by evidence or reasoning. It often offers a novel solution or perspective that captures attention and inspires belief or action.