What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coerce
Example
The kidnappers tried to coerce the victim's family into paying the ransom. [coerce: verb]
Example
She felt coerced into signing the contract under duress. [coerced: past tense]
compel
Example
The evidence presented in court compelled the jury to reach a guilty verdict. [compel: verb]
Example
I am compelled to help those in need because it is the right thing to do. [compelled: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Compel is more commonly used than coerce in everyday language. Compel is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while coerce is less common and often used in more specific situations involving manipulation or intimidation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between coerce and compel?
While coerce is typically associated with a more formal and serious tone, compel can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
