COERCIVE Synonyms: 26 Similar and Opposite Words

coercive

adjective

Definition of coercive next

as in persistent

formal using force or threats to make someone do something; using coercion coercive measures

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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 coercive American power is not forged through coercive foreign adventures but is built on the economic dynamism of its states. —

Markos Kounalakis, Mercury News, 5 Mar. 2026 Each coercive step in this conflict – from the 2018 withdrawal from the nuclear deal, to the 2020 assassination of Qasem Soleimani, Iran’s most powerful military commander, to the June 2025 strikes – was framed as restoring leverage. —

Farah N. Jan, The Conversation, 2 Mar. 2026 What earlier artists were required to conceal—the violence of communist transformation, the coercive pressure converting practice into state apparatus—Meldibekov’s installations make forensically available. —

Anel Rakhimzhanova, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2026 Garza has explicitly framed the coalition as a response to concerns about warrantless entries, unlawful detentions and coercive enforcement tactics. —

Dante Motley, Austin American Statesman, 26 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for coercive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for coercive

Adjective

Policymakers were already split over whether to prioritize persistent inflation or lackluster employment.

— Eleanor Mueller, semafor.com, 17 Mar. 2026
But in North Texas alone, parts of the region still struggle with persistent poverty.

— Wilborn P. Nobles III, Dallas Morning News, 16 Mar. 2026