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compel

verb

Synonyms and Antonyms of compel

to cause (a person) to give in to pressure

  • public opinion compelled her to fire her scandal-plagued aide
Synonyms of compel

blackjack, coerce, constrain, dragoon, drive, force, impel, impress, make, muscle, obligate, oblige, press, pressure, sandbag
Words Related to compel

browbeat, bulldoze, bully, cow, hector, intimidate

blackmail, high-pressure, menace, shame, terrorize, threaten

drag

badger, harass, hound
Phrases Synonymous with compel

twist one's arm
Near Antonyms of compel

allow, let, permit

argue, convince, induce, move, persuade, prevail (on or upon), satisfy, talk (into), win (over)

Synonym Discussion of compel

force, compel, coerce, constrain, oblige mean to make someone or something yield. 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
compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force.
    • compelled to admit my mistake
coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure.
    • coerced into signing over the rights
constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice.
    • constrained by conscience
oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty.
    • felt obliged to go

Learn More about compel

  1. See words that rhyme with compel Dictionary: Definition of compel Spanish Central: Translation of compel Nglish: Translation of compel for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of compel for Arabic speakers

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