How to Say "compelling" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “compelling” is “convincente” — use 'convincente' when something, like an argument, evidence, or story, is persuasive and convincing.
convincente
kohn-veen-SEHN-tehkom.binˈθen.te
Examples
El abogado presentó una prueba muy convincente.
The lawyer presented very convincing evidence.
Su explicación no fue nada convincente, sigo dudando.
His explanation wasn't convincing at all; I still doubt it.
Necesitamos un argumento convincente para ganar el debate.
We need a persuasive argument to win the debate.
One Form for Both Genders
Since 'convincente' ends in -e, it is used for both masculine nouns (el argumento convincente) and feminine nouns (la razón convincente). You don't need to change the ending.
Making it Plural
To describe more than one thing, simply add -s: 'convincentes' (e.g., Las pruebas eran convincentes).
Forgetting the Plural
Mistake: “Los argumentos fue convincente.”
Correction: Los argumentos fueron convincentes. (Make sure the adjective agrees with the noun in number, meaning singular or plural.)
irresistible
ee-rre-sees-TEE-blehiresisˈtiβle
Examples
Este pastel de chocolate es irresistible.
This chocolate cake is irresistible.
Ella tiene una personalidad irresistible que atrae a todos.
She has an irresistible personality that attracts everyone.
Sentí un impulso irresistible de comprar esos zapatos.
I felt an irresistible urge to buy those shoes.
One Form for All
This word stays the same for both masculine and feminine things. You say 'el pastel irresistible' and 'la oferta irresistible'—no need to change the 'e' at the end to an 'a'.
Placement for Emphasis
Usually, this word goes after the noun you are describing (e.g., 'un deseo irresistible'). Putting it before the noun is rare and usually only found in poetic writing.
The 'RR' Sound
Mistake: “iresistible”
Correction: irresistible (with two 'r's). Because the 'r' is at the start of a root word and between two vowels, it must be double to get that strong trill sound.
Gender confusion
Mistake: “una oferta irresistibla”
Correction: una oferta irresistible. Remember that adjectives ending in 'e' don't change for gender.
Convincente vs. Irresistible
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.