Compel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช
compel
[kษmหpel ]
Definitions
to force
To compel means to force someone to do something, often using authority or pressure. It can also mean to bring about by force or necessity. The act of compelling can be physical, emotional, or moral.
Synonyms
coerce, force, oblige, pressure.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| compel |
Use 'compel' when talking about a strong internal or external force that motivates someone to take an action, often driven by duty or necessity.
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| force |
Use 'force' when describing a physical or powerful influence that makes someone do something against their will, often implying a lack of choice.
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| oblige |
Use 'oblige' when an obligation or favor is requested, often implying a sense of duty rather than force.
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| coerce |
Use 'coerce' to describe the act of persuading someone to do something by using force or threats, carrying a negative connotation.
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| pressure |
Use 'pressure' to describe the use of persistent persuasion or influence to cause someone to do something, often implying stress or discomfort.
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Examples of usage
- He felt compelled to tell the truth.
- She was compelled to attend the meeting.
- The evidence compelled him to reconsider his decision.
to cause
To compel can also mean to cause something to happen inevitably. It implies a strong necessity or inevitability.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| compel |
Used when someone is forced to do something due to pressure or necessity. Often implies a lack of choice.
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| cause |
Used to indicate the source or reason for something happening.
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| prompt |
Used to indicate a quick or immediate reaction or action, often suggests external triggers or suggestions.
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| induce |
Often used in formal or medical contexts to mean persuading or triggering an action or condition.
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| drive |
Used to imply motivation or energy behind an action, often comes from internal forces or desires.
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Examples of usage
- The laws of nature compel the planets to orbit around the sun.
- His passion for music compelled him to become a musician.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- The concept of compulsion refers to an inner urge that drives people to act, often seen in repetitive behaviors.
- Psychological studies suggest that feelings of obligation can compel individuals to override personal desires and beliefs.
Law
- In legal terms, a defendant may be compelled to testify or provide information through court orders or legal mandates.
- The principle of compulsion in law involves using authority to ensure compliance, sometimes even against oneโs will.
Literature
- Many authors use character 'compulsion' as a plot device, where characters are driven to perform actions by external forces.
- Shakespeareโs plays often explore themes of compulsion, such as in 'Macbeth,' where ambition compels characters toward disastrous choices.
Everyday Life
- People often feel compelled to help others, reflecting social responsibility and empathy within communities.
- In marketing, compelling advertisements are designed to persuade consumers to take action, like making a purchase or signing up.
Origin of 'compel'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'compellere,' meaning 'to drive together' or 'force,' which gives a hint to its strong meaning.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially used in a legal context.
The word 'compel' originated from the Latin word 'compellere', which means 'to drive together' or 'to force'. The term has been in use since the 14th century in English, evolving from its Latin roots. Over the centuries, 'compel' has retained its core meaning of forcing or driving someone to do something against their will or out of necessity.