extortion
The practice of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats.
Extortion involves coercion – using threats (of violence, exposure of secrets, damage to reputation, etc.) to compel someone to give up money or property. It's not just taking, but forcing the victim to hand it over.
Word relationships
- blackmail: A specific type of extortion involving threats to reveal damaging information unless money is paid.
- coercion: Broader term for forcing someone to do something, not necessarily for financial gain.
- shakedown (informal): Informal term for extortion, often implying a quick, forceful demand for money.
- generosity: The quality of being kind and giving.
- voluntary contribution: Giving something freely and willingly.
Word family
- extort (verb): To obtain (something) by force, threats, or other unfair means.
- extortionist (noun): A person who practices extortion.
Collocations
- commit extortion
- charges of extortion
- extortion racket
- blackmail and extortion
Example sentences
- "The gang was notorious for its protection racket, using threats and violence to commit extortion against local businesses." Reporting on organized crime.
- "Ransomware attacks are a modern form of digital extortion, encrypting data and demanding payment for its release." Discussing cybercrime.
Memory hook
EXTORTION sounds like 'EX-TORsion' – twisting something EX-tra out of someone using threats. Twist out by threats
When not to use
Do not use 'extortion' for simple theft or robbery, which involve taking without consent, but not necessarily through a prior threat that compels the victim to act.
Fun facts
- Historically, 'extortion' could also refer to the illegal collection of fees by public officials.
Also appears in
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