compelling circumstances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "compelling circumstances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a strong reason or justification is needed to explain a decision or action taken under unusual or pressing conditions. Example: "Due to compelling circumstances, we have decided to extend the deadline for submissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"The court has the discretion to order disclosure under compelling circumstances which were certainly present here".

The Guardian

For example, the regulations prohibit "unaffordable loans," except "under compelling circumstances".

The New York Times

Mr. Roux argued that there were "substantial and compelling circumstances" to show leniency.

The New York Times

The essence of the administration's reasoning was that California had failed to demonstrate "extraordinary and compelling" circumstances justifying stricter rules.

The New York Times

Mr. Davis said "extraordinary and compelling circumstances" favored the release of the woman, Rose Ann Parker, 41.

The New York Times

Under the policy, the Bureau of Prisons must find "extraordinary and compelling" circumstances to justify making such a request to a judge, who has the final say.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"I don't want to predict where the Delaware court will come out, but where you have a very large shareholder and something related directly to corporate governance, it seems to me a pretty compelling circumstance" under the state law, Mr. Pitt said.

The New York Times

The second and probably more compelling circumstance is where most potential buyers have the capacity to make only a small down payment, and are therefore not in a position to fund the cost of major repairs after purchase.

Huffington Post

"Upon consideration of all the relevant factors as discussed in this decision," Judge Telesca wrote, "I find that the amount of the proposed settlement is fair, adequate and reasonable under all of the prevailing -- and compelling -- circumstances".

The New York Times

Frequently, because of a defendant's cooperation, the weakness of the case or compelling personal circumstances, there are reasons to impose a sentence below the range suggested by the sentencing guidelines.

The New York Times

This relief was granted in about half the cases -- a few thousand a year, immigration experts said -- and typically to immigrants whose family members were American citizens, or who could show evidence of rehabilitation or other compelling personal circumstances.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "compelling circumstances", ensure you clearly articulate what those circumstances are to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "Due to compelling circumstances, the event was cancelled", specify: "Due to compelling circumstances, specifically the severe weather forecast, the event was cancelled."

Common error

Avoid using "compelling circumstances" as a generic excuse without substance. Vague references diminish the phrase's impact and can be perceived as insincere. Be specific and transparent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compelling circumstances" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject complement or object of a preposition. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is usable in written English. It describes a set of conditions that necessitate a particular action or decision.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "compelling circumstances" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote situations that necessitate a specific response or deviation from the norm. Ludwig AI confirms that is perfectly valid in written english. It frequently appears in news and media, as well as scientific and encyclopedia contexts, signaling a generally neutral to formal register. When using the phrase, ensure you are specific about what those circumstances are to avoid ambiguity. Also, avoid using "compelling circumstances" as a generic excuse without substance. Considering alternatives like "urgent situation" or "exigent circumstances" can add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exigent circumstances

Highlights the demanding nature of the situation, often used in legal contexts.

extraordinary situation

Emphasizes the unusual and remarkable aspects of the circumstances.

urgent situation

Focuses on the time-sensitive nature of the circumstances.

pressing situation

Highlights the urgency and importance requiring attention.

necessitating conditions

Stresses the aspect of requirement and inevitability.

exceptional cases

Focuses on the rarity and deviation from the norm.

imperative conditions

Underlines the necessity and obligatoriness of the situation.

critical juncture

Emphasizes the decisiveness and importance of the moment.

unavoidable situation

Emphasizes the impossibility of preventing the occurrence.

dire straits

Conveys the severity and negativity of the situation.

FAQs

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

Use "compelling circumstances" to justify a deviation from the norm or a necessary action. For example, "The judge reduced the sentence due to "compelling circumstances" presented by the defense."

What's a less formal alternative to "compelling circumstances"?

In less formal contexts, you could use phrases like "urgent situation" or "serious reasons" instead of "compelling circumstances".

Are "compelling circumstances" and "extenuating circumstances" the same?

"Extenuating circumstances" often refer to factors that lessen the blame or severity of an action, while "compelling circumstances" more broadly refer to any situation that necessitates a particular response. They are similar but not always interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use "compelling circumstances"?

It's appropriate to use "compelling circumstances" when you need to explain or justify a decision or action that might seem unusual or unexpected. Ensure the circumstances truly warrant the description to maintain credibility. Consider "urgent situation" or "exigent circumstances" as possible alternatives, if appropriate.