VocabDictionary

coercive

/koʊˈɜːr.sɪv/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Relating to or using force or threats to persuade someone to do something against their will.

Example Sentences:
  • The government was accused of using coercive tactics to suppress political dissent.
  • The contract was signed under coercive pressure, rendering it legally void.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “coercive”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'coercere', meaning 'to enclose, restrain, or control.' This is a compound of 'co-' (together) and 'arcere' (to shut up or keep away). It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining the sense of using force or threats to compel action.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'co-er-sive' as 'co-force-ive'—someone using force to make you cooperate.

Frequently Asked Questions About “coercive

1. What is the meaning of “coercive” in English?

In English, coercive (adjective) is defined as: “Relating to or using force or threats to persuade someone to do something against their will.”.

2. How do you use “coercive” in a sentence?

The government was accused of using coercive tactics to suppress political dissent.

3. What are English synonyms of “coercive”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “coercive”?

Derived from the Latin 'coercere', meaning 'to enclose, restrain, or control.' This is a compound of 'co-' (together) and 'arcere' (to shut up or keep away). It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining the sense of using force or threats to compel action.