compel
kuhm-PEL
/kəmˈpɛl/
To force or oblige someone to do something; to bring about something by the use of force or pressure.
Implies that the subject has no choice but to comply, whether due to physical force, legal obligation, or an irresistible moral urge.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'compellere', which meant 'to drive together' or 'to force' (from 'com-', together, and 'pellere', to drive). It originally described shepherds driving sheep together into a tight, inescapable group.
Word relationships
- force: 'Force' is a direct, often physical imposition of power, while 'compel' is more formal and can include legal, moral, or psychological pressure.
- coerce: 'Coerce' specifically implies using threats or intimidation to achieve compliance, whereas 'compel' can be neutral or even positive (e.g., compelled by love).
- dissuade: 'Dissuade' is to persuade someone not to do something, whereas 'compel' is to force them to do it.
- permit: 'Permit' is to allow someone the choice to act, rather than forcing them.
Commonly confused with
- impel: 'Impel' refers to an internal drive or push forward, while 'compel' usually refers to an external force or obligation.
Word family
- compulsion (noun): An irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, especially against one's conscious wishes.
- compelling (adjective): Evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way.
Collocations
- compel obedience
- feel compelled
- compel attention
- compel compliance
Example sentences
- "The judge issued a subpoena to compel the witness to testify in court." A legal obligation in court.
- "A deep sense of duty can compel a person to speak out against injustice." An internal psychological drive.
Memory hook
Think of a 'compelling' argument that 'compels' you to change your mind, like a strong wind blowing you forward. Drive someone to act.
When not to use
Do not use when describing a gentle invitation or a situation where compliance is entirely optional.
Fun facts
- The root 'pellere' also gives us 'pulse', 'propel', and 'repel', all of which share the core physical concept of pushing or driving force.
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