propel
pruh-PEL
/prəˈpel/
To drive, push, or cause to move forward or onward in a particular direction (physically or metaphorically).
Implies a powerful, continuous force that drives someone or something forward, often overcoming resistance or inertia.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Latin 'propellere', where 'pro-' means 'forward' and 'pellere' means 'to drive or push'. It shares a family tree with words like 'pulse', 'compel', and 'repel', all of which involve some form of pushing force.
Word relationships
- thrust: Thrust implies a sudden, sharp, and sometimes violent push, whereas propel suggests a more sustained, directed force driving something forward.
- drive: Drive is a general term for forcing something to move, while propel specifically emphasizes the forward momentum and the mechanism behind the movement.
- impede: Impede means to delay or obstruct the progress of something, slowing down its forward momentum.
- repel: Repel means to force or drive back, directly opposing the forward direction of propel.
Commonly confused with
- compel: Compel means to force someone to do something through authority or obligation, while propel means to physically or metaphorically drive them forward with momentum.
Word family
- propulsion (noun): The action of driving or pushing forward.
- propeller (noun): A mechanical device with rotating blades for driving a ship or aircraft forward.
Collocations
- propel forward
- propel into stardom
- propel growth
- propel a career
Example sentences
- "Winning the prestigious award helped to propel her into the international literary spotlight." Describing career advancement.
- "The powerful wind currents helped to propel the sailboat across the choppy bay." Discussing physical mechanics.
Memory hook
Think of a boat's 'propeller'. It spins rapidly to 'propel' the boat forward through the water. Push forward with power.
When not to use
Do not use when describing a gentle guidance or a lateral movement; propel always implies a strong forward momentum.
Fun facts
- The concept of jet propulsion, which propels modern commercial aircraft, is based on Isaac Newton's third law of motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
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