Extortion: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats.

• The criminal was convicted of extortion after demanding money in exchange for not revealing secret information

Best used when someone is threatening to reveal embarrassing or damaging information unless certain demands, often money, are met.

• She was a victim of blackmail when someone threatened to share her private photos unless she paid them

Appropriate for situations where someone is being forced to do something against their will through pressure or threats.

• The company was accused of coercion for pressuring employees to lie about safety violations

Used when someone is trying to frighten another person into doing or not doing something.

• The bully used intimidation to make the younger kids give him their lunch money

Used to describe the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats. Often associated with criminal activities.

• The police arrested him for extortion after he demanded money in exchange for not revealing secrets.
• The businessman was a victim of extortion by a local gang.

Describes demands that are excessively high or unreasonable, typically involving money or services. The term is often used to emphasize the unfairness or severity of the demands.

• The mafia made extortionate demands for protection money from the local businesses.
• The landlord's extortionate demands for rent increases led to protests from tenants.

Informal and often used in American English to describe a situation where someone is forced to give up money or valuables through intimidation or threats. It can also refer to a thorough search or inspection.

• They were subjected to a shakedown by corrupt officials demanding bribes.
• The police conducted a shakedown of the suspect's apartment looking for evidence.

Refers to the act of demanding and obtaining something, especially money, through pressure or force. It is typically used in formal or legal contexts.

• The king's exactions from the peasants were viewed as oppressive and unfair.
• The government faced criticism for the heavy exactions imposed on the citizens.