Coerced Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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coerced
[kษหษrst ]
Definitions
influence
Persuade (an unwilling person) to do something by using force or threats.
Synonyms
compel, force, pressure, strong-arm.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| compel |
Appropriate when someone is driven or obligated to do something, sometimes due to external circumstances or authority.
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| force |
Used when someone is made to do something by physical power or strength, or a very strong influence.
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| strong-arm |
Used in informal settings when someone is forced or bullied into doing something through the use of physical strength or intimidation. It carries a negative connotation.
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| pressure |
Utilized when someone is subjected to a continuous and urgent influence or persuasion to do something.
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Examples of usage
- He was coerced into giving evidence.
- The kidnappers coerced the victim's family into paying the ransom.
law
Obtain (something) by using force or threats.
Synonyms
extort, extract, solicit, wring.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| coerced |
Used when someone is forced or compelled to do something against their will, often through threats or pressure. It implies a lack of willingness or consent.
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| extract |
Usually applied in formal or technical contexts when something is being taken out or removed, often with effort or difficulty. It can be used for both physical and abstract things.
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| wring |
Primarily used to describe the act of twisting or squeezing something to remove liquid. Can also mean extracting something through effort or pressure, often emotional or physical, and may sometimes carry a negative connotation.
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| extort |
Used when someone obtains something, especially money, through force, threats, or other illegal means. It carries a strongly negative connotation and implies criminal behavior.
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| solicit |
Applied when someone is asking for something, such as money, help, or information, typically politely or formally. It does not carry a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- They were coerced into signing the contract.
- The confession was coerced under duress.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal terms, coercion is often seen as a means of invalidating a contract if one party is forced into agreement.
- Many legal systems differentiate between physical coercion and psychological coercion when determining liability.
- Coercion is a common element in cases of extortion and can involve threats of violence or damage.
Psychology
- Coercive tactics can lead to feelings of helplessness or lowered self-esteem in the coerced individual.
- The psychological impact of coercion can lead to long-lasting effects, including anxiety and depression.
- Research shows that understanding coercive control is crucial in domestic violence cases.
History
- Throughout history, coercion has been used by governments to maintain power, especially during times of war.
- During the Roman Empire, coerced labor was common in the form of slavery and forced conscription.
- Revolutions often arise in response to coercive regimes, as people seek freedom from forced control.
Pop Culture
- In movies like 'The Godfather', characters often face coercion, showcasing dramatic moral dilemmas.
- Popular music frequently addresses themes of being coerced into relationships or actions, highlighting emotional struggles.
- Television shows often depict coercive relationships, exploring the dynamics of power and consent in character arcs.
Origin of 'coerced'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'coercere', meaning 'to enclose' or 'to restrain'.
- Its roots also connect to 'cogere', meaning 'to drive together' or 'to compel'.
- The term has been in use in English since the late 14th century, evolving from meanings related to confinement.
The word 'coerce' originated from the Latin word 'coercere', which means 'to surround, restrain, control'. It entered the English language in the 15th century. The concept of coercion has been present throughout history, often associated with the exertion of power or authority to compel someone to act against their will.
See also: coercer, coercion, coercionist, uncoerced.