Words / C1

koh-URSHUN/kəʊˈɜːʃn/

Coercion is the use of force or threats to make someone do something: a confession obtained by coercion. Pressure is everyday and milder; force is close; duress is the legal cousin (under duress). Coerce is the verb; coercive is the adjective. In speech, forcing someone or threats is enough. Consent under coercion is not free consent — a point that matters in law and ethics essays.

Meaning

The use of force or threats to make someone do something.

Examples

• “A confession obtained by coercion is not valid.”
• “A confession obtained by coercion will not stand in court.”
• “The “voluntary” extra hours looked like coercion once the rotas were public.”

Good to know

Force or threats to compel. Verb: coerce. Adjective: coercive. Everyday: force / threats. Legal: duress. Stronger than pressure.

Near in meaning

force

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