Coercing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
coercing
[kษสหษหrsษชล ]
Definition
forceful persuasion
Coercing refers to the act of persuading someone to do something by using threats or force. It often involves the manipulation of someoneโs will through intimidation or pressure, making them feel compelled to comply against their better judgment.
Synonyms
compelling, forcing, intimidating, pressuring.
Examples of usage
- The manager was coercing employees to meet unrealistic targets.
- She felt coerced into signing the contract under duress.
- The government was accused of coercing citizens into voting.
- He never intended to coerce her; he just wanted her to be honest.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Coercion can create feelings of resentment and distrust, as it undermines free will.
- Studies show that individuals often experience heightened stress and anxiety in coercive situations.
- Victims of coercion may develop learned helplessness, feeling they have no control over their actions.
Law
- In legal terms, coercion is recognized as a form of duress, which can invalidate consent or contracts.
- Many legal systems punish coercive acts, especially when they lead to harm or exploitation.
- In criminal law, coercing someone to commit a crime can lead to additional charges against the coercer.
Sociology
- Coercion can occur in various social structures, from families to workplaces, often entailing an imbalance of power.
- Social movements often address coercive practices, advocating for voluntary compliance and mutual agreement.
- Cultural norms can influence perceptions of acceptable coercion, such as in parenting or workplace expectations.
Pop Culture
- Depictions of coercion appear widely in movies, often showing characters faced with moral dilemmas.
- Popular songs sometimes explore themes of emotional manipulation, relatable to the concept of coercion.
- Television shows often dramatize coercive tactics in crime stories, drawing attention to their psychological effects.
Origin of 'coercing'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'coerce' comes from the Latin 'coercere', meaning to restrain or confine.
- In English, 'coercing' has been used since the 14th century to describe the act of forcing someone to act in a certain way.
- The prefix 'co-' implies joint or togetherness, while 'ercere' suggests to restrain - highlighting the combined force in coercion.
The term 'coerce' derives from the Latin verb 'coercere', which means to 'enclose, restrain, or confine'. This Latin term is a combination of the prefix 'co-' meaning 'together' and 'arcere' meaning 'to shut in or enclose'. The word entered the English language in the 14th century, predominantly used in legal contexts where one party exerted influence over another. Over time, the meaning expanded beyond legal implications to encompass any form of imposed will, often involving threats or physical force. The term reflects a heavy moral and ethical connotation, suggesting not only the exertion of pressure but also the violation of autonomy and individual choice. Thus, coercion is often discussed in contexts of law, psychology, and ethical debates, particularly regarding human rights.