avvincente
The English word 'compelling' is translated into Italian as avvincente.
The word avvincente is most commonly used to describe stories, plots, books, movies or music that are gripping or captivating.
Meaning: able to capture and hold one's attention (adj)
Which one should you use?
While English uses 'compelling' for both an interesting story and a strong argument, Italian distinguishes them: use avvincente for an interesting story and convincente for a convincing argument.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective avvincente is invariable in gender, meaning it is the same for both masculine and feminine nouns. The plural form of avvincente is avvincenti, which is used for both masculine and feminine plural nouns.
Did you know?
- In Italian, if a story is so avvincente that you cannot stop reading, you might describe yourself as rapito, meaning you have been 'kidnapped' by the plot.
- The word avvincente comes from the verb avvincere, which literally means 'to bind' or 'to tie up' with ropes or chains. Using it to describe a book suggests the story has figuratively tied the reader in place.
- If you describe a person as avvincente, you are not just saying they are interesting, but suggesting they possess a magnetic, almost hypnotic charm that is difficult to resist.
Examples in context
- Questa musica è avvincente.This music is compelling.This sentence shows how to use avvincente to describe music.Tatoeba #13317607 by Guybrush88, translation #11176477 by SunnyMoon
- Ho presentato una serie di argomenti convincenti durante la riunione di lavoro.I presented a series of compelling arguments during the work meeting.
- Il film che ho visto ieri sera era davvero coinvolgente!The movie I watched last night was really compelling!
- Questo libro è davvero coinvolgente.This book is truly compelling.
- Ho ascoltato un discorso molto convincente all'evento di beneficenza.I listened to a very compelling speech at the charity event.
- Il lavoro svolto da questo artista è davvero convincente.The work done by this artist is truly compelling.
- È una storia molto avvincente.It is a very compelling story.
- Il finale del film era avvincente.The ending of the movie was compelling.
Example conversation
Matteo and Sofia are discussing a book they just finished.
- MatteoHai letto il nuovo romanzo di Marco?Have you read Marco's new novel?
- SofiaSì, è davvero avvincente!Yes, it is truly compelling!
- MatteoAnche per me è stato un libro incredibile.It was an incredible book for me too.
- SofiaNon riuscivo a smettere di leggere.I couldn't stop reading.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry avvincente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
