compel

/kəm'pel/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "compel."

Definition:

The verb "compel" means to make someone do something or to force a situation to happen. It can also mean that something is so important or necessary that it requires action.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "compel" when you want to express that someone has no choice but to do something.
• It often implies a strong influence or pressure.

Example Sentences:

1. "The teacher compels all students to fill out this form." (This means all students must fill out the form; they have no choice.)
2. "The water shortage compels everyone to save water." (This means the shortage makes it necessary for everyone to conserve water.)

Advanced Usage:

In more complex sentences, "compel" can be used in various tenses and forms: - Present: "The rules compel us to follow the guidelines." - Past: "The storm compelled us to stay indoors." - Future: "The law will compel companies to reduce pollution."

Word Variants:

• Compulsion (noun): The feeling of being forced to do something.
  • Example: "He felt a compulsion to help others."
• Compelled (adjective): Being forced to do something.
  • Example: "She felt compelled to speak up about the issue."

Different Meanings:

• Legal Context: In legal terms, "compel" can mean to force a person to appear in court or to provide evidence.
  • Example: "The judge can compel witnesses to testify."

Synonyms:

• Force
• Coerce
• Obligate
• Necessitate

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "compel" doesn't have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you might encounter phrases like: - "Under duress": This means being forced to do something against one’s will. - Example: "He signed the contract under duress."

Summary:

In summary, "compel" is a strong verb used to indicate that someone is forced or required to do something, often due to necessity or external pressure. It can be used in various contexts, from everyday situations to legal matters.

Academic

Verb

1. necessitate or exact
   • the water shortage compels conservation
2. force somebody to do something
   • We compel all students to fill out this form

Synonyms

• oblige
• obligate