Extort: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone is forcing another person to give them money, property, or other things of value by using threats, violence, or pressure.

• The gang members tried to extort money from local business owners.
• He was arrested for attempting to extort a famous actor.

Coerce is used when someone is being forced to do something against their will through pressure, threats, or intimidation.

• The kidnappers tried to coerce the captive into giving up valuable information.
• He was coerced into signing the contract under duress.

Blackmail involves threatening to reveal embarrassing, damaging, or sensitive information unless demands, usually for money, are met.

• She was a victim of blackmail after someone threatened to leak her private photos.
• The politician faced blackmail from someone who had incriminating evidence against him.

Intimidate is used when someone is being frightened or overawed, especially to make them do what one wants.

• The bully tried to intimidate the younger kids.
• The loud and aggressive tone was meant to intimidate the employees.

This word is used when someone is making a statement of intent to cause harm or trouble unless their demands are met.

• He threatened to report her to the authorities if she didn't comply with his demands.
• The anonymous caller threatened to bomb the building if his requests weren't fulfilled.

Use this word when someone is trying to get something, usually money, through threats or force.

• He tried to extort money from the businessman.
• The gang extorted protection money from local shops.

Use this word when someone is being forced to do something against their will, often through threats or pressure.

• They were coerced into signing the contract.
• The witness was coerced into testifying falsely.

This word is suitable when someone is threatening to reveal personal or damaging information unless they get what they want.

• She was blackmailed into giving them the money.
• He used private photos to blackmail his colleague.

This word is appropriate when someone is trying to make another person afraid or anxious, usually to control or influence them.

• The bully tried to intimidate the younger kids.
• He was intimidated by the threatening messages.

Use this word when someone is expressing an intent to cause harm or negative consequences to another person.

• She threatened to call the police if he didn’t leave.
• The dam threatened to collapse under the heavy rain.