Definition of coercenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word coerce different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of coerce are compel, constrain, force, and oblige. While all these words mean "to make someone or something yield," coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure.

coerced into signing over the rights

When would compel be a good substitute for coerce?

The meanings of compel and coerce largely overlap; however, compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force.

compelled to admit my mistake

When is it sensible to use constrain instead of coerce?

The words constrain and coerce can be used in similar contexts, but constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice.

constrained by conscience

In what contexts can force take the place of coerce?

While in some cases nearly identical to coerce, force is the general term and implies the overcoming of resistance by the exertion of strength, power, or duress.

forced to flee for their lives

When might oblige be a better fit than coerce?

While the synonyms oblige and coerce are close in meaning, oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty.

felt obliged to go

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of coerce Lured by the promise of well-paying jobs, hundreds of thousands of people like them have been coerced into engaging in scams such as posing as women online, cultivating intimate relationships with foreigners to defraud them of their savings. Kayla Hayempour, NBC news, 8 June 2026 Safety regulations – intended to constrain corporate power – in authoritarian regimes become tools to coerce compliance. Michael Gregory, The Conversation, 4 June 2026 In the state of Arkansas, lawmakers worked across the aisle on a bold bill that categorizes kids recruited into gangs and coerced into committing crimes as victims. Ana Zamora, Time, 3 June 2026 The thoughtlessness with which this bride coerced you into subsidizing her wedding was stunning. Judith Martin, Mercury News, 23 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for coerce
Recent Examples of Synonyms for coerce
Verb
  • Graf denied a bid from Robinson's defense team to compel his former roommate and lover Lance Twiggs to testify during the preliminary hearing in July.
    Michael Ruiz , Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 22 June 2026
  • Representatives of the Utah County Attorney’s Office said they were compelled to speak publicly about the case following speculation in some media outlets.
    Rebecca Boone, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • Chisholm did not appear to go around and immediately erupted over the lack of an appeal, forcing Boone and first base coach Dan Fiorito to intervene.
    Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 29 June 2026
  • The competing corridors have left shippers confused, forcing vessels to navigate threats from sea mines, aerial drones and IRGC patrol boats.
    Xiaoqian Lin, CNN Money, 29 June 2026
Verb
  • Parents feel obligated to provide their children with a certain standard of summer vacation, regardless of the actual cost.
    Jennifer Jay Palumbo, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026
  • You are not obligated to carry everyone’s emotions, Sagittarius.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • His status as the game’s best secure, Messi lifted the trophy in a bisht that had been placed upon him — obliged to share his greatest triumph with the geopolitical forces that had brought the World Cup to the Middle East for the first time.
    Will Jeanes, New York Times, 20 June 2026
  • Bedford Affordable would be obliged to ensure that at least 40% of the units are set aside for low-income residents, documents show.
    George Avalos, Mercury News, 19 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Coerce.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/coerce. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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