Compulsion: meaning, definitions and examples

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compulsion

[kəmˈpʌlʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

feeling

The action or state of forcing or being forced to do something; constraint. The irresistible impulse to perform an act, especially one that is irrational or contrary to one's will.

Synonyms

desire, drive, need, urge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compulsion	This word is often used when someone feels a strong, usually irresistible, pressure to do something, often without rational reason. It can have a negative connotation, especially in psychological contexts. He felt a compulsion to check his phone every few minutes Her compulsion to wash her hands repeatedly worried her family
urge	Urge is used to describe a strong impulse or instinctive desire to do something. It can be sudden and might lead to immediate action. He had the urge to laugh in the middle of the serious meeting She resisted the urge to eat all the cookies in one sitting
drive	Drive is used to convey a strong motivational force that compels someone to pursue goals or ambitions. It often implies a sustained energy or determination. His drive to become a successful entrepreneur was evident from a young age The drive to help others has always been a key part of her personality
need	Need refers to something essential or very important for someone. It is a basic requirement that must be met for someone to be well or to achieve something. There is a need for more healthcare facilities in rural areas She expressed her need for more time to complete the project
desire	Desire is used to express a strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen. It is neutral and can be used for both positive and negative wishes. She has a strong desire to travel the world His desire for success drove him to work hard every day

Examples of usage

She felt a compulsion to tell the truth.
He couldn't resist the compulsion to check his phone.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

psychology

An irrationally motivated act or decision. An irrational motive for performing trivial or repetitive actions, even against your will.

Synonyms

craving, fixation, impulse, obsession.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compulsion	Often used in psychological or medical contexts to describe an uncontrollable urge to perform a specific action repeatedly. She has a compulsion to wash her hands every few minutes. He feels a compulsion to check the door lock multiple times before leaving.
obsession	Implies an intense and often unhealthy preoccupation with something or someone. His obsession with collecting stamps consumed most of his free time. Her obsession with cleanliness made it difficult for her to relax.
fixation	Used to describe an excessive and unhealthy focus on a particular person, object, or idea. His fixation on perfectionism was affecting his work and personal life. She developed a fixation on a celebrity, following every detail of their life.
craving	Typically used to describe a strong desire for something, usually food or a substance. She had a sudden craving for chocolate. His cravings for cigarettes were hard to resist when he first tried to quit smoking.
impulse	Refers to a sudden, strong, and unreflective urge or desire to act. On an impulse, she decided to book a flight to Paris. He often made purchases on impulse without considering his budget.

Examples of usage

His compulsion to wash his hands repeatedly is a symptom of OCD.
She has a compulsion to count things repeatedly.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Compulsion can be a symptom of conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), where people feel driven to perform certain actions repeatedly.
In psychology, the 'compulsive' behavior often serves as a way to manage anxiety or stress, reflecting an underlying emotional struggle.
Compulsions are not always harmful; in some cases, they can help individuals feel more secure in situations they find stressful.

Historical Origins

The word 'compulsion' comes from the Latin word 'compellere,' which means to 'drive or force' someone to do something.
Throughout history, the concept of compulsion has been linked to both moral and legal discussions regarding free will and responsibility.
In ancient societies, compulsive behaviors were often interpreted as spiritual or supernatural influences.

Pop Culture

Films like 'A Clockwork Orange' explore the theme of compulsion by showcasing characters forced into violent acts against their will.
Many songs reference compulsive feelings of love or obsession, such as 'Addicted' by Kelly Clarkson, illustrating how strong emotions can lead to repetitive actions.
In literature, characters with compulsive traits are often portrayed as deeply conflicted, highlighting the struggle between desire and reason.

Science

Neuroscience research shows that certain brain areas, such as the basal ganglia, are involved in compulsive behaviors, which can be linked to habit formation.
Studies suggest that chemical imbalances in the brain may contribute to the development of compulsive disorders, prompting further research into treatment options.
Compulsive behaviors often create a loop in the brain where the relief from anxiety reinforces the action, making it hard to break the cycle.

Cultural Perspectives

In some cultures, compulsive behaviors may be viewed through a spiritual lens, with rituals used to alleviate feelings of compulsion.
The interpretation of compulsive behaviors can vary widely between different cultures, affecting how individuals perceive their own actions.
Some societies provide support systems or groups to help individuals manage compulsive tendencies, emphasizing community and shared experience.

Translations

Translations of the word "compulsion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 compulsão

🇮🇳 आवश्यकता

🇩🇪 Zwang

🇮🇩 paksaan

🇺🇦 примус

🇵🇱 przymus

🇯🇵 強制 (きょうせい)

🇫🇷 compulsion

🇪🇸 compulsión

🇹🇷 zorlama

🇰🇷 강박

🇸🇦 إكراه

🇨🇿 nutkání

🇸🇰 nutkanie

🇨🇳 强迫 (qiǎngpò)

🇸🇮 prisila

🇮🇸 þrýstingur

🇰🇿 мәжбүрлеу

🇬🇪 იძულება

🇦🇿 məcburiyyət

🇲🇽 compulsión

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,580, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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10577 outrage
10578 dissipation
10579 cohort
10580 compulsion
10581 stately
10582 pronunciation
10583 capitalists
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