Synonym Chooser

How is the word compel different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of compel are coerce, constrain, force, and oblige. While all these words mean "to make someone or something yield," compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force.

compelled to admit my mistake

When might coerce be a better fit than compel?

Although the words coerce and compel have much in common, coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure.

coerced into signing over the rights

When is it sensible to use constrain instead of compel?

While the synonyms constrain and compel are close in meaning, constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice.

constrained by conscience

When could force be used to replace compel?

In some situations, the words force and compel are roughly equivalent. However, 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 is oblige a more appropriate choice than compel?

The words oblige and compel can be used in similar contexts, but oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty.

felt obliged to go

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 compel The strain of keeping Russia's invasion at bay, and the lack of progress in direct peace talks, has compelled Ukraine to seek more military help from the United States and Europe. Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025 Davidtz felt compelled to adapt Fuller’s memoir herself. Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 7 July 2025 Federal officials argue there is no law or provision in the Constitution that compels the EPA to make these grants to these groups. arkansasonline.com, 6 July 2025 The church is requesting a Tarrant County judge to halt the arbitration process and declare that Morris lacks the authority to compel arbitration. Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 3 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for compel
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compel
Verb
  • Witnesses testified about whether the original detective and prosecutor in his case had coerced them into testifying against Bell at his 1995 trial.
    The Marshall Project, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 July 2025
  • The school board responded that the materials did no more than expose the children to new ideas, and that in any case nobody was being coerced.
    Stephen L. Carter, Mercury News, 8 July 2025
Verb
  • Glaser told Variety that her shift in wardrobe allowed viewers to see that she’s taken control of her life, no longer following the gaudy colors and costumes her mother forced upon her in previous seasons.
    Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 15 July 2025
  • In Sweden, municipalities were forced to communicate offline using paper memos.
    Sindhya Valloppillil, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • Legal experts warn that compliance may violate the Fair Housing Act and that landlords are not legally obligated to respond without judicial oversight.
    Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
  • If a pet or livestock animal is bitten by a rabid animal, the owner should immediately call a veterinarian, who is legally obligated to report it to the proper health authorities.
    Marina Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 11 July 2025
Verb
  • Clark the Cub obliged and threw the ball back to Kamara.
    Ryan Canfield, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2025
  • Many pet owners love to pamper and praise their animal companions, and there are small business owners who are quick to oblige.
    Erin Federigan, Mercury News, 2 July 2025
Verb
  • Gomber got the dangerous De La Cruz to ground into a fielder’s choice, but Austin Hayes drove an RBI single up the middle to score Friedl, tying the game 2-2.
    Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 13 July 2025
  • At its core, greed drives their pursuit of wealth and power.
    John Towfighi, CNN Money, 13 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Compel.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compel. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on compel

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