coerce
koh-ERSS
/koʊˈɜːrs/
To persuade an unwilling person to do something by using force or threats.
Implies a lack of choice and the presence of an external, often unethical, pressure.
The story behind the word. Derived from 'co-' (together) and 'arcere' (to shut up or enclose). Originally, it meant to physically restrain someone. Over time, it evolved to mean 'restraining' someone's will through threats.
Word relationships
- force: Force is a general term; coerce specifically implies psychological or legal pressure to gain an action.
- compel: Compel can be neutral (compelled by duty), but coerce is almost always negative.
- persuade: Persuade uses reason or appeal; coerce uses threats.
Commonly confused with
- coax: Coax is gentle and manipulative; coerce is harsh and forceful.
Word family
- coercion (noun): The practice of persuading someone by force.
Collocations
- coerce into
- coerced confession
- use of coercion
Idioms & expressions
- twist someone's arm
- under duress
Example sentences
- "The suspect claimed that the police tried to coerce a confession from him." A legal context regarding a confession.
- "Dictators often coerce their citizens into voting through intimidation." Political science discussion.
Memory hook
Coerce sounds like 'force'. If you coerce someone, you force them. Coerce = Control by force.
When not to use
Do not use for gentle persuasion or logical arguments.
Fun facts
- In law, a contract signed under coercion is usually considered 'voidable,' meaning it has no legal power.
Related words
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