Force
FORSS
/fɔːrs/
A push or a pull upon an object resulting from the object's interaction with another object.
In physics, force is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. It's often associated with causing a change in an object's motion or shape.
The story behind the word. Our word 'Force' comes from the Old French 'force', which itself originated from the Latin 'fortia', meaning 'strength' or 'power'. This Latin root 'fortis' meant 'strong'. So, when you exert a force, you're quite literally applying strength or power to something, a meaning that has remained remarkably consistent over centuries.
Word relationships
- power: Power often refers to the rate at which work is done, or a general ability, whereas force is a specific push/pull.
- strength: Strength is the quality of being strong; force is the action or influence itself.
- weakness: The absence of strength or force.
- inertia: Inertia is resistance to change in motion, not an active push or pull.
Commonly confused with
- Energy: Force is a push/pull; energy is the capacity to do work. A force can do work, thereby transferring energy.
Word family
- forceful (adjective): powerful; effective
- forcibly (adverb): by force; using force
- enforce (verb): to compel observance of or compliance with (a law, rule, or obligation)
Collocations
- exert force
- apply force
- gravitational force
- net force
- opposing force
Idioms & expressions
- force of nature
- force of habit
- in force
Example sentences
- "Sir Isaac Newton's second law of motion states that the net force acting on an object is equal to the rate at which its momentum changes." Describing a fundamental concept in physics.
- "The engineers calculated the precise amount of force required to lift the heavy steel beam into place." In a mechanical context.
- "The gravitational force between the Earth and the Moon is responsible for the ocean tides." Referring to a natural phenomenon.
Memory hook
Think of a 'FORce' as something that makes things 'FORward' or 'backWard'. It pushes or pulls. Push/Pull
When not to use
Avoid using 'force' informally when a simpler word like 'strength' or 'power' would suffice, unless you specifically mean the physical concept.
Fun facts
- The standard unit of force in the International System of Units (SI) is the Newton (N), named after Sir Isaac Newton.
- There are four fundamental forces in the universe: the strong nuclear force, the weak nuclear force, electromagnetism, and gravity.
Also appears in
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