a compelling notion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a compelling notion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an idea or concept that is particularly interesting or persuasive. Example: "The author presents a compelling notion about the impact of technology on human relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The theory that people get what is coming to them, for good or ill, is a compelling notion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Certainly in "longing two," Ms. Uchizono is exploring a compelling notion — how leaving one space and entering another potentially alters the shape of a work — yet there is not enough choreographic meat to sustain the tenuous balance.

The New York Times - Arts

In fact, the guiding principle behind many homespun Web sites seems to be that no one is more qualified to help you plan a vacation than your fellow explorer, and it is a compelling notion.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Beyond demographics lies an equally compelling notion: what does it mean to be a leader?

HuffPost

I've just written a poem called "Forgiveness: A Colloquy". Forgiveness is a subject that has long fascinated me, perhaps because how many times over the years I've needed to be forgiven, perhaps because of Dostoyevsky's compelling notion that it's harder to allow yourself to be forgiven than to forgive.

The New Yorker

Forgiveness is a subject that has long fascinated me, perhaps because how many times over the years I've needed to be forgiven, perhaps because of Dostoyevsky's compelling notion that it's harder to allow yourself to be forgiven than to forgive.

The New Yorker

Perhaps the most compelling notion about the digital age is that it makes place irrelevant.

Los Angeles Times

Strip away the compelling notion of justice, and Cinderella sounds distressingly like the saga of The Donald and his latest supermodel fiancee, not a story that modern parents would want their daughters to emulate.

Los Angeles Times

This letter does not challenge the importance of gamma oscillations, nor do we deny the compelling notion of binding by synchrony.

Brain Structure and Function

One of the most compelling notions -- and here Brecht shows his famous politics -- involves whether the masses should be entrusted with the new knowledge of science; in this account, Galileo's theories filter down to the common people and change their worldview with surprising speed.

The New York Times

Both Williamson and Bartley made a compelling case for the notion that building a fashion brand needn't mean lobotomising creativity and filling the gap with vacuous logos and focus-grouped handbags.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a compelling notion" to introduce an idea that is not only interesting but also has a persuasive quality that makes it worthy of serious consideration.

Common error

While "a compelling notion" is generally acceptable, its formal tone might sound out of place in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a good idea" or "an interesting thought" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a compelling notion" functions as a noun phrase, where "compelling" modifies the noun "notion". It typically serves to introduce or describe an idea that is particularly interesting, persuasive, or convincing, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a compelling notion" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English used to describe an idea or concept that is both interesting and persuasive. Ludwig AI identifies its primary function as introducing worthy of attention and consideration across diverse contexts such as news, science, and academia. While it is considered relatively uncommon, using alternatives like "a persuasive idea" or "an intriguing concept" can provide stylistic variation. Remember to consider the formality of the context when using this phrase to ensure appropriate tone and register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a persuasive idea

Emphasizes the convincing quality of the idea.

an intriguing concept

Highlights the fascinating or curious aspect of the concept.

a convincing argument

Focuses on the logical and persuasive strength of the argument.

a fascinating theory

Emphasizes the captivating or interesting nature of the theory.

an attractive proposition

Suggests the idea is appealing and worth considering.

a powerful concept

Highlights the strength and influence of the concept.

a gripping idea

Emphasizes the captivating or absorbing nature of the idea.

a well-reasoned argument

Focuses on the logical structure and soundness of the argument.

a significant concept

Highlights the importance and relevance of the concept.

a captivating theory

Stresses the allure and interest generated by the theory.

FAQs

How can I use "a compelling notion" in a sentence?

You can use "a compelling notion" to introduce an idea that is both interesting and persuasive. For instance, "The researcher presented a compelling notion about the benefits of mindfulness."

What are some alternatives to "a compelling notion"?

You can use alternatives like "a persuasive idea", "an intriguing concept", or "a convincing argument" depending on the specific context.

Is "a compelling notion" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a compelling notion" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in academic or professional contexts where you need to convey that an idea is both interesting and persuasive.

What makes "a compelling notion" different from "a good idea"?

"A compelling notion" implies that the idea is not only good but also persuasive and worthy of serious consideration, whereas "a good idea" is a more general and less emphatic endorsement.