coercion (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /koʊˈɜːrʒən/

Definition

The practice of persuading someone to do something by using force or threats.

Examples

• The confession was obtained through coercion.

• He felt he was under duress and coercion to sign the contract.

• The report detailed instances of police coercion against protesters.

How to Use coercion

coercion into (prepositional phrase)

Being forced to do something against one's will. — "He was subjected to coercion into revealing the company's secrets."

coercion of (prepositional phrase)

The act of using force or threats against someone. — "The investigation focused on the coercion of witnesses by the criminal organization."

Synonyms of coercion

Words with a similar meaning to coercion:

• pressure
• force
• duress
• intimidation

Antonyms of coercion

Words with the opposite meaning to coercion:

• persuasion
• volition

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