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forceful
/ˈfɔːrs.fəl/
strong and powerful
Her forceful argument convinced the entire committee.
Her argument was strong and compelling, leaving no room for doubt.
neutral
Strong, powerful, or vigorous in expression or action.
The CEO delivered a forceful speech about the company's future.
The CEO spoke with great strength and clarity about the company's direction.
She made a forceful case for the new policy during the meeting.
She presented her argument with compelling evidence and conviction.
Often implies a persuasive or impactful quality, but can also suggest aggression if context is negative.
Collocations
forceful personalitya strong and assertive characterforceful deliverya powerful and convincing presentation style
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'forcible'
'Forceful' describes strength in expression or action, while 'forcible' means done by force or violence. Compare: 'a forceful argument' vs. 'a forcible entry'.
Gold Rule
Use 'forceful' for impact, not just strength
'Forceful' implies a deliberate, persuasive, or compelling quality. It’s not just about physical power but about making an impression. For example, 'a forceful performance' suggests intensity and impact, not just loudness.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'forceful', equivalent to 'force' + '-ful'. First recorded use in the late 14th century.
Usage Notes
Use 'forceful' to describe actions, arguments, or personalities that are strong and impactful. Avoid using it for physical strength alone unless the context implies a deliberate, controlled exertion.
Word Breakdown
force
strength or power
root-ful
full of or characterized by
suffixEnglish Dictionary