Extortion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
extortion
[ษชkหstษหส(ษ)n ]
Definitions
crime
The practice of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats.
Synonyms
blackmail, coercion, intimidation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| extortion |
Used when referring to the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats.
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| blackmail |
Best used when someone is threatening to reveal embarrassing or damaging information unless certain demands, often money, are met.
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| coercion |
Appropriate for situations where someone is being forced to do something against their will through pressure or threats.
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| intimidation |
Used when someone is trying to frighten another person into doing or not doing something.
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Examples of usage
- The gang was involved in extortion and racketeering.
- She was charged with extortion after threatening to release embarrassing information.
legal
The crime of obtaining money or property by threat or force.
Synonyms
exaction, extortionate demands, shakedown.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| extortion |
Used to describe the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats. Often associated with criminal activities.
|
| extortionate demands |
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.
|
| shakedown |
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.
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| exaction |
Refers to the act of demanding and obtaining something, especially money, through pressure or force. It is typically used in formal or legal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- He was arrested for extortion and fraud.
- The company was a victim of extortion by the corrupt officials.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Perspectives
- Extortion is considered a crime in many jurisdictions, often punished severely with fines and imprisonment.
- There are various forms, including 'blackmail,' which specifically involves threatening to reveal damaging information unless payment is made.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict characters who resort to extortion, showcasing the moral dilemmas surrounding crime and power.
- Television series often include plots of organized crime where extortion plays a central role, illustrating its impact on communities.
Psychology
- People who commit this act might use fear to manipulate others, showcasing underlying traits of power and control.
- Victims often experience significant emotional distress, which can lead to long-term psychological effects from the threat of violence or harm.
Historical Context
- Throughout history, there have been documented cases of extortion by gangs, organized crime groups, and even corrupt officials.
- In medieval times, extortion often took the form of protection rackets where individuals were forced to pay for safety from harm.
Origin of 'extortion'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'extortio,' which means to twist out or extract something by force.
- Its roots can be traced back to 'extorquere,' meaning to wrench out or pull out, reflecting the coercive nature of the act.
The word 'extortion' originated from the Latin word 'extortus', past participle of 'extorquere', which means 'to wrench out'. The concept of extortion has been present in various societies throughout history, often associated with criminal activities and abuse of power. Laws against extortion have been developed to protect individuals and businesses from such coercive practices.
See also: extort, extortionist.