COERCE Synonyms: 44 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

coerce

verb

Definition of coerce next

as in to compel

to cause (a person) to give in to pressure was coerced into signing the document

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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