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Exaction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exaction

[ÉŖgĖˆzƦkŹƒ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

government

The action of demanding and obtaining something from someone, especially a payment or tribute.

Synonyms

demand, extortion, levy, tribute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exaction

This word is used when a person or organization imposes a strict or unreasonable demand, often involving money. It carries a negative connotation.

  • The government's exaction of high taxes angered the citizens
  • The exaction of fees for basic services was seen as unjust
demand

Used in a general sense when asking or requiring something forcefully or forcefully requesting something. It can be neutral or contextually driven by intensity.

  • The workers made a demand for better working conditions
  • There is a high demand for new technology in the market
levy

Commonly used in a formal or governmental context when an authority imposes a tax, fee, or fine. It is usually neutral and procedural.

  • The local council decided to levy a new property tax
  • The government levied duties on imported goods
extortion

Refers to the act of obtaining something, typically money, through force, threats, or manipulation. It has strong negative connotations and often illegal implications.

  • The company was involved in extortion schemes
  • He was charged with extortion after threatening the victim
tribute

Often used historically or in a ceremonial context, referring to a payment made periodically by one state or ruler to another as a sign of dependence, or to show respect or admiration.

  • The ancient empire required a yearly tribute from its colonies
  • The event was a tribute to her incredible career

Examples of usage

  • Exaction of taxes is necessary for the functioning of the government.
  • The exaction of unreasonable fees from citizens led to protests.
  • The exaction of bribes from businesses is considered corruption.
  • The exaction of tolls on roads is a common practice in many countries.
  • Officials were accused of exaction of illegal payments.
Context #2 | Noun

legal

The action of taking something by force or coercion.

Synonyms

coercion, compulsion, force, intimidation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exaction

Used in formal or legal contexts to describe an unfair or unreasonable demand, especially involving money or compliance.

  • The villagers suffered under the heavy exactions of the corrupt officials.
  • The company faced criticism for its exaction practices in contract agreements.
coercion

Used to describe the act of persuading someone to do something by using force or threats; it carries a negative connotation.

  • He claimed his confession was obtained through coercion.
  • She accused her manager of coercion, saying he threatened to fire her if she didn't comply.
intimidation

Used to describe behavior intended to make someone feel afraid or timid, often to get them to do something; it carries a negative connotation.

  • She reported incidents of intimidation by her coworkers.
  • Intimidation tactics were used to silence the opposition.
force

A broad term used in many contexts to describe physical power or strength, or power to make someone do something.

  • The door was locked, but he managed to open it by force.
  • They used force to break up the protest.
compulsion

Used to describe an irresistible urge to behave in a certain way, often against one's own wishes, or the use of force to make someone do something.

  • He felt a sudden compulsion to check his phone every few minutes.
  • The contract was signed under compulsion, leaving no room for negotiation.

Examples of usage

  • The exaction of confession by torture is prohibited by international law.
  • The exaction of property by threat of violence is a criminal offense.
  • The exaction of labor from workers without compensation is exploitation.
  • Exaction of evidence through intimidation is a violation of human rights.
  • Exaction of compliance through fear is unethical.

Translations

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Origin of 'exaction'

The word 'exaction' originated from the Latin word 'exactionem', which means a demand or exaction. It has been used in English since the late 14th century. Originally, it referred to the action of demanding payment or tribute, especially by a government authority. Over time, the term has also come to be associated with the idea of taking something by force or coercion, often in a legal or ethical context.

See also: exact, exacting, exactitude, exactness, inexact, inexactitude.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,353, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.