coerce
Definitions
To force someone to do something against their will by using threats, pressure, or force
（用威胁、压力或武力）强迫、胁迫某人做某事
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedco- (completely) + arcēre (to enclose, fence in) = to box someone in on every side. The original image is a fence with no gap: you don't argue with a coerced person, you surround them with pressure until they have no choice. That's why coerce always implies threats or force, never gentle persuasion.
Root arc still carries 3 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.coerce someone into (doing) something胁迫某人做某事
- 2.be coerced into被迫……
- 3.coerce a confession逼供
Example Sentences
- 1.
They tried to coerce him into signing the confession.
- 2.
No one should be coerced into voting a certain way.
- 3.
The company used debt to coerce farmers into selling their land.
Synonym Comparison
- coerce — force compliance through threats/pressure; leaves no real choice
- force — most general; can be physical or circumstantial
- compel — strong, often by law or duty: the law compels you to pay tax
- pressure — softer, persistent influence; may not fully remove choice
- intimidate — frighten into submission; emphasizes fear, not the outcome