extortion Definition
- 1the crime of obtaining something from someone, especially money, by force or threats
- 2the practice of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats
Using extortion: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "extortion" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The gang used extortion to get money from local businesses.
Example
He was arrested for extortion after threatening to release embarrassing information about his boss.
Example
The company was accused of extortionate pricing.
extortion Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for extortion
- intimidation
- racket
- shakedown
- blackmail
- coercion
Phrases with extortion
the act of using threats or coercion to obtain sexual favors or images from someone
Example
The perpetrator was charged with sexual extortion after threatening to release explicit photos of the victim.
a criminal operation in which money or other valuable items are demanded from people or businesses in exchange for protection or to prevent harm
Example
The mafia was known for running an extortion racket in the city.
extortionate prices
prices that are unreasonably high and take advantage of the buyer
Example
The hotel charged extortionate prices for their minibar items.
Origins of extortion
from Latin 'extortus', meaning 'wrenched out'
Summary: extortion in Brief
Extortion [ikˈstɔːrʃn] is the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force or threats. It is a criminal offense that involves using coercion or intimidation to extract something of value from someone. Examples include sexual extortion, extortion rackets, and extortionate pricing. Synonyms include blackmail, coercion, and shakedown.
