compel
B2Formal
Definition
Meaning
To force or oblige someone to do something.
To drive or bring about by irresistible force, pressure, or authority; also, to evoke a powerful feeling or reaction.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Suggests a force, whether moral, legal, or circumstantial, that overrides free will. It often implies an external agent or circumstance, not the subject's own desire.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major difference in core meaning or usage. Slightly more frequent in formal American legal/administrative contexts.
Connotations
Both varieties share connotations of authority, moral duty, or irresistible pressure.
Frequency
Comparable frequency; considered a formal word in both regions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
SVO (compel someone)SV to-INF (compel someone to do something)Passive: be compelled to do somethingVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(There is) no compulsion”
- “To feel compelled (to do something)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Regulations compel companies to disclose financial data.
Academic
The evidence compels us to reconsider the existing theory.
Everyday
My conscience compels me to tell the truth.
Technical
The new algorithm compels the system to process data in a specific sequence.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The new law compels all landlords to meet strict safety standards.
- He felt compelled to write a letter of apology.
- The judge can compel a witness to attend court.
American English
- The subpoena compels the CEO to testify before Congress.
- Her dedication compels respect from the entire team.
- The contract compels the buyer to make payment within 30 days.
adverb
British English
- He argued so compellingly that few could disagree.
- The film compellingly portrays the hero's inner struggle.
American English
- The data is compellingly clear on this point.
- She spoke compellingly about the need for change.
adjective
British English
- The compelling evidence led to a swift conviction.
- It was a compelling argument for reform.
American English
- She gave a compelling performance that captivated the audience.
- There is no compelling reason to delay the project.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My parents compel me to do my homework.
- The bad weather compelled us to stay inside.
- The teacher compelled the students to be silent.
- Financial problems compelled him to sell his car.
- The treaty compels both nations to reduce their military forces.
- Her conscience compelled her to confess the mistake.
- The sheer beauty of the landscape compels a profound sense of awe in the viewer.
- The prosecutor sought to compel the disclosure of documents under the court's authority.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'COMPEL' as 'COM-PEL' (like 'pellet'). Imagine someone pushing a pellet into you, FORCING you to move.
Conceptual Metaphor
FORCE IS A PHYSICAL DRIVER (compel someone to move, be driven to act).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'побуждать' (to encourage/gently urge). 'Compel' is stronger, closer to 'вынуждать', 'заставлять'.
- Avoid using it for simple preferences or mild suggestions.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'compel' without 'to' (e.g., 'He compelled her leave' - INCORRECT. Must be 'to leave').
- Overusing in informal contexts where 'make' or 'have to' is more natural.
Practice
Quiz
In which sentence is 'compel' used CORRECTLY?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Compel' is more formal and often implies a moral, legal, or internal pressure, while 'force' is more general and direct, often implying physical coercion.
Yes, e.g., 'Her talent compels admiration' or 'The story is so compelling I couldn't stop reading.' It means it irresistibly evokes a positive reaction.
The main noun is 'compulsion'. 'The compulsion to do something' means a strong, irresistible urge.
Yes, the passive form is very common: 'I am compelled by the evidence to agree,' or 'I felt compelled by her story to help.'