Compelled: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when someone feels strongly driven or has a powerful desire to do something, often due to internal reasons or emotions.

• She felt compelled to speak up about the injustice she witnessed.
• He was compelled by his conscience to tell the truth.

This word is suitable when someone feels a sense of duty or social responsibility to do something, often as a result of a favor or social expectation, not necessarily against their will.

• He felt obliged to attend the wedding because the bride was his cousin.
• After receiving her help, he felt obliged to return the favor.

Use this when someone is made to do something by an external power or authority, often involving physical power or strong pressure. It can have a negative connotation.

• The enemy soldiers forced the villagers to leave their homes.
• The teacher forced the students to rewrite their essays.

This term is appropriate when someone is pressured or threatened into doing something against their will, often involving force or intimidation. It has a negative connotation.

• The witness was coerced into giving false testimony.
• He felt coerced by his boss to work overtime without extra pay.

Use this word when someone is driven to do something due to an emotional or moral force. It often implies pressure or an irresistible urge.

• He felt compelled to tell the truth
• She was compelled to help the injured animal

Use this word when an official order or commission is given to do something. It is common in formal, legal, and organizational contexts.

• The government has mandated new safety regulations
• The school board mandated that every student wear a uniform

Use this word when something is needed or necessary. It is more neutral and less forceful than 'compelled' or 'force.'

• All employees are required to wear ID badges
• The job requires a high level of skill

Use this word in the context of making sure that laws, rules, or standards are followed. It implies an implementation of authority.

• The police enforce the law strictly
• The teacher enforced the classroom rules

Typically used when someone feels forced to do something due to external pressure or a strong sense of duty.

• She felt compelled to speak out against the injustice
• He was compelled by law to testify in court

Describes a strong desire or impulse to do something, often immediate and compelling.

• He felt an overwhelming urge to apologize
• She had an urge to check her phone every few minutes

Refers to an innate, often biological, impulse that guides behavior, usually without conscious thought.

• Her maternal instinct kicked in as soon as she held her baby
• Animals hunt using their natural instinct

Used to describe a person's motivation or ambition to achieve something, often long-term and focused.

• His drive for success was evident in his relentless work ethic
• She has a strong drive to become a professional athlete