compel
UK/kəmˈpel/US/kәm'pel/
IELTSTOEFLGREB2
Definitions
v.
To force or pressure someone to do something
强迫，迫使（某人做某事）
v.
To bring about something by force or necessity
强行引起；迫使产生
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedcom- (here an intensifier, 'completely') + pel (push) = push someone completely, until there's no room to resist — to force. The com- isn't 'together' here so much as 'with full force.' You compel by leaving no choice.
Root pel still carries 52 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.compel someone to强迫某人...
Example Sentences
- 1.
The new law compels companies to disclose their emissions.
- 2.
Nothing can compel me to betray a friend.
- 3.
Illness compelled her to cancel the trip.
Easily Confused
compel vs impel — both 'drive to act,' but compel is external pressure that leaves no choice (the law compels you), while impel is an inner drive or urge (curiosity impelled him). Outside force → compel; inner motivation → impel.