What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pressure
Example
The pressure of the water caused the dam to break. [pressure: noun]
Example
I feel a lot of pressure to succeed in my job. [pressure: noun]
Example
My boss is pressuring me to work overtime this weekend. [pressuring: verb]
compulsion
Example
I have a compulsion to check the door is locked before I go to bed. [compulsion: noun]
Example
He suffers from a compulsion to wash his hands repeatedly. [compulsion: noun]
Example
She felt a compulsion to tell the truth, even though it would hurt her friend's feelings. [compulsion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pressure is more commonly used than compulsion in everyday language. Pressure is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while compulsion is less common and is typically used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pressure and compulsion?
Both pressure and compulsion can be used in formal and informal contexts, but pressure is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels.
