a compelling point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a compelling point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an argument or statement that is persuasive or convincing. Example: "During the debate, she made a compelling point about the importance of renewable energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Mr. Lumumba's namesake brings up a compelling point.

The New York Times

COMMENT FROM KYLIE: A compelling point made in your recent piece reads, "They should have taught us that a photograph of the violence you inflict is always, in very large measure, a self-portrait".

The New Yorker

Fararr falls on the Kapernick side of the argument, and his take that N.F.L. offenses have changed enough in the past decade that quarterback prospects don't need to be ready-made players like before is a compelling point.

The New York Times

But while the show, on Saturday, was strong on polished separates like periwinkle and kelly green jackets and sweaters mixed with tweeds and shearlings, it didn't present a compelling point of view.

The New York Times - Style

This one-man show, directed by David Drake, has his usual drag finery, outlandish stories and ukulele-accompanied songs, but it also has a compelling point, about the security bubble we encase ourselves in, shutting out the possibility of surprise (1 30).

The New York Times

Grove describes his mission as rebuilding America's industrial commons, and here he makes a compelling point.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

When the likes of Larry Summers, Alan Blinder and Paul Samuelson express as much anxiety about the perils of advancing technology as about the downside of trade, I will at least concede that they are being consistent.This is, in a narrow sense, a very compelling point.

The Economist

Boy, if that were true it would be a pretty compelling point, although it would also provide a pretty compelling argument against our lax gun laws, but that's another issue.

Huffington Post

The convenience of the format, the clear picture, the ability to locate any part of the disc at a touch, as on a CD, are all compelling points in its favor.

The New York Times - Arts

The interspecies difference may have caused bias with respect to the importance of MMP-12 since, although the failure of MMP-12 null mice to develop emphysema upon smoke exposure makes a more compelling point than determination of expression levels, MMP-12 seems to be the major MMP in murine macrophages, while human macrophages produce several MMPs (Parks and Shapiro 2001).

Amino Acids

Jim Goetz of Sequoia Capital noted similarly that entrepreneurs ought to spend more time in the idea phase, honing in on a unique and compelling point of view before trying to build a company around it.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "a compelling point" to introduce or highlight a central idea that demands consideration or further exploration.

Common error

Avoid using "a compelling point" for minor or obvious observations. Reserve this phrase for truly significant and persuasive ideas to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a compelling point" functions as a noun phrase that highlights the significance and persuasiveness of an idea or argument. As Ludwig AI says, it is correct and usable in written English and often introduces a central thesis. The examples Ludwig provides reinforce this function, demonstrating its use in various contexts to emphasize the importance of a statement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a compelling point" is a versatile phrase used to highlight persuasive and noteworthy ideas. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. Its function is to emphasize the significance of an argument, prompting further consideration. Related phrases include "a persuasive argument" and "a convincing argument". To effectively use this phrase, ensure that the point is supported by strong evidence and warrants serious attention, avoiding overuse for trivial observations. The prevalence of this phrase in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Economist underscores its utility in conveying significant ideas, solidifying its status as a common and effective expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a persuasive argument

Focuses on the argument's ability to convince.

a convincing argument

Emphasizes the argument's believability.

a strong argument

Highlights the argument's forcefulness and validity.

a noteworthy observation

Emphasizes the significance of the point being made.

a significant consideration

Highlights the importance of the point in decision-making.

an important factor

Focuses on the point's role as a key element.

a crucial element

Highlights the point as essential and indispensable.

a powerful consideration

Highlights the point's impact and influence.

a remarkable insight

Emphasizes the depth and originality of the point.

a vital aspect

Focuses on the point's critical relevance.

FAQs

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

You can use "a compelling point" to introduce a significant idea or argument in your writing or speech. For example, "The speaker made "a compelling point" about the need for educational reform."

What are some alternatives to "a compelling point"?

Alternatives include "a persuasive argument", "a convincing argument", or "a strong argument", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "compelling point" or "valid point"?

"Compelling point" suggests that the point is persuasive and demands attention, while "valid point" simply means the point is logically sound. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize persuasiveness or correctness.

What makes a point "compelling"?

A point becomes "compelling" when it is supported by strong evidence, logical reasoning, and resonates with the audience, making it difficult to dismiss or ignore. It often changes the perspective or reinforces a particular viewpoint effectively.