Coerce

Verb

Definition: To persuade or manipulate someone to do something through force or threat.

Definition: To restrain or constrain someone to act in a certain way against their will.

Synonyms: Compel, Force, Pressure, Bully, Intimidate

Antonyms: Persuade, Encourage, Convince, Inspire

Examples:

The dictator used his power to coerce the citizens into supporting him.
The boss coerced his employees into working overtime without additional pay.

Mnemonics:

Remember the word "force" within "coerce" to highlight the meaning of using force or pressure to make someone do something.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English (in the sense 'restrain by force'): from late Latin 'coercere', from 'co-' (meaning 'together') + 'arcere' (meaning 'shut up, enclose').

Historical Usage:

The term 'coerce' has been in use since the late Middle English period, evolving from the concept of restraining by force.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Coerce into submission"

Explanation:

To forcefully manipulate or pressure someone to completely surrender or give in.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'coerce' with 'convince' or 'persuade'.

Explanation:

While 'coerce' involves the use of force or pressure to make someone comply, 'convince' or 'persuade' refers to the act of influencing someone's beliefs or actions through reasoning, logic, or argumentation.