Coerce
To compel someone to act in a certain way by using threats, pressure, or intimidation; to force or constrain against their will.
verbCoerce
To compel someone to act in a certain way by using threats, pressure, or intimidation; to force or constrain against their will.
verbImagine This
Imagine a teenager who wants to stay out late, but a parent says, 'You can go only if you come home by curfew.' The threat of punishment coerces the teen into following the rule.
Sounds Like
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Looks Like
Looks like 'force' in meaning; visually resembles related terms like 'coercion'.
Remember This
Coercion involves pressure or threats to make someone do something. It differs from genuine persuasion, which seeks agreement through argument rather than fear or force.
Other Forms
Connect With
force, compel, pressure, intimidate, duress
Note
Common usage is 'coerce someone into doing something.' Be careful not to confuse with 'convince' or 'persuade'—those imply voluntary agreement, not forced compliance.