HOBSON'S CHOICE Synonyms: 23 Similar and Opposite Words

Hobson's choice

noun

Definition of Hobson's choice

as in coercion

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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 Hobson's choice Read my lips, in a veritable Hobson's choice between person or thing, AI is a thing, for now. — Lance Eliot, Forbes, 21 June 2022

Recent Examples of Synonyms for Hobson's choice

Noun

These are predictable outcomes of a system that exposes women, often in isolation, to contact with unknown men under conditions shaped by coercion, stigma, and inequality.

— Judy Harris Kluger, New York Daily News, 26 July 2026
The decision must be voluntary, informed, and free of coercion.

— Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Definition of coercion

Noun

Iranian forces targeted military infrastructure at an air base in Kuwait, according to state media on Friday.

— Jeremy Diamond, CNN Money, 31 July 2026
Women also carry a higher proportion of fatigue-resistant slow-twitch muscle fibers, and studies of ultra-distance trail runners have found women sustain less peripheral fatigue and lose less maximal force than men competing at equivalent levels.

— Lindsey Darvin, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

Definition of force

Noun

Therapists also suggest talking honestly about debt, credit and any financial obligations one partner is bringing into the relationship, so nothing surprises the other person after the boxes are unpacked.

— Ashley Lynch, Charlotte Observer, 29 July 2026
There is, however, an obligation that comes with that position.

— Murthy Maddali, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Definition of obligation

Noun

Tunick’s lawyers have filed a motion with the court asking that all evidence from the interrogation, including the use of the duress code, be suppressed due to violation of his constitutional rights.

— Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 27 July 2026
Indianapolis can’t afford for Jones to constantly be under duress from his blindside, so Raimann must be a pillar of consistent protection, or else Indy’s whole offense will crumble.

— James Boyd, New York Times, 23 July 2026

Definition of duress

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“Hobson's choice.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/Hobson%27s%20choice. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of Hobson's choice

noun

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