The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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compel

verb

/kəmˈpɛl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of compel

To force or obligate someone to do something, often through the use of pressure, authority, or persuasion.
"The thought of losing his job may compel him to work harder."

Detailed meaning of compel

It can also mean to motivate or encourage someone to do something, especially through the use of a strong or powerful influence. For example, a person who is ordered or required to do something by a superior might be said to be compelled to do it. A person who is motivated or encouraged to do something by a strong desire or need might also be said to be compelled to do it. The term is often used to describe a situation in which someone is made or encouraged to do something against their will or better judgment, or in which they are motivated or influenced by a strong desire or need.

Example sentences containing compel

1. The urgent situation compelled her to make a quick decision.
2. His determination compelled him to overcome every obstacle.
3. The persuasive speech compelled the audience to take action.
4. The rules of the game compel fair play and sportsmanship.
5. The evidence presented in court compelled a guilty verdict.
6. A sense of duty compelled him to help those in need.

History and etymology of compel

The verb 'compel' has its etymological origins in Latin, coming from the word 'compellere,' which is a combination of 'com,' meaning 'together,' and 'pellere,' meaning 'to drive' or 'to push.' This etymology conveys the idea of driving or pushing someone together with a force or authority. In English, 'compel' emerged in the late 14th century and retained this sense of using force, authority, or persuasion to oblige someone to take a particular action or make a specific decision. The word 'compel' thus reflects its Latin roots, emphasizing the concept of compelling or driving someone to do something, often against their will or inclination.

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Further usage examples of compel

1. Financial difficulties often compel people to seek loans.
2. Her passion for justice compelled her to become a lawyer.
3. Ethical principles should compel us to do the right thing.
4. Social norms can compel individuals to conform to society.
5. Their strong friendship compelled them to support each other.
6. The judge will compel the witness to testify.
7. The urgent situation may compel her to make a difficult decision.
8. The law will compel businesses to reduce carbon emissions.
9. The new evidence could compel a retrial of the case.
10. He thinks that his authority should compel immediate action.
11. The school may compel students to wear uniforms.
12. The storm might compel the ship to seek harbor.
13. Financial difficulties may compel him to sell the house.
14. The new regulations will compel companies to rethink their strategies.
15. Public outcry can compel the government to change its policies.
16. The current market trends compel businesses to innovate.
17. They hope that the letter will compel the company to act ethically.
18. The military draft will compel young men to serve.
19. Their moving testimony should compel the jury to consider all the evidence.
20. High pollution levels will compel the city to implement restrictions.
21. Their parents' expectations compel them to strive for excellence.
22. The desperate situation could compel them to take risks.
23. The event aims to compel individuals to make lifestyle changes.
24. The flood warnings will compel the residents to evacuate.