as in persistent
formal
using force or threats to make someone do something; using coercion
coercive measures
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
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
As San Jose moves toward a more coercive approach for homeless residents who repeatedly refuse shelter, the debate over enforcement will remain central at City Hall.
—
Mercury News Editorial Board,
Mercury News,
27 May 2026
In the 1760s, several situations arose involving ordinary people navigating coercive authority that restricted mobility and autonomy.
—
Literary Hub,
26 May 2026
On March 23, 20 states and the District of Columbia sued the USDA to block the new terms for receiving federal funding, which the states characterized as coercive.
—
Chiara Eisner,
NPR,
17 May 2026
But, increasingly, the coercive diplomatic tactics have not worked, and a pressure paradox has emerged.
—
Sudarsan Raghavan,
New Yorker,
12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for coercive
Mercury News Editorial Board,
Mercury News,
27 May 2026
In the 1760s, several situations arose involving ordinary people navigating coercive authority that restricted mobility and autonomy.
—
Literary Hub,
26 May 2026
On March 23, 20 states and the District of Columbia sued the USDA to block the new terms for receiving federal funding, which the states characterized as coercive.
—
Chiara Eisner,
NPR,
17 May 2026
But, increasingly, the coercive diplomatic tactics have not worked, and a pressure paradox has emerged.
—
Sudarsan Raghavan,
New Yorker,
12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for coercive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for coercive
Adjective
-
The launch includes five solution categories—Restaurant Assistant, Packer, Picker, Folder, and Host—targeting persistent labor shortages in sectors such as industrial operations, logistics, healthcare, food services, lodging, and experiential venues.
-
Why is this padding so persistent?
Adjective
-
Aggressive counter-pressing is also a defining feature, with teams swiftly attempting to recover possession high up the pitch, and successful sides regaining the ball faster.
-
Duncan said adding another stadium project to the city’s ledger that does not address the city’s more pressing issues still hurts taxpayers, despite the developers’ plans to back the bonds.
Cite this Entry
“Coercive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/coercive. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
