Definition

1. Verb:
   • To cause something to move forward with force or momentum: This meaning describes applying a force that drives an object in a specific direction.
   • To urge, force, or motivate a person to do something: This meaning describes a strong internal or external pressure that compels someone to take a specific action.

Examples of Usage

• Verb (Causing motion):

  • The strong winds impel the sailboat across the bay.
  • The design uses water jets to impel the vehicle forward.

• Verb (Urging or motivating action):

  • A sense of duty impelled her to speak the truth.
  • Financial difficulties impelled him to look for a second job.

Advanced Usage

• "to impel someone to do something": This is the standard construction for the motivational sense.

  • Curiosity impelled him to open the old chest.

• "to impel something forward/onward": This construction emphasizes the directional movement.

  • The engine's power impels the wheels onward.

Variants and Related Words

• Impulsion (n): The act of impelling or the state of being impelled; a driving force.

  • The impulsion behind his decision was a desire for change.

• Impulsive (adj): Acting or done without forethought, driven by a sudden urge.

  • She later regretted her impulsive purchase.

Synonyms

• Propels: Drives or pushes something forward.
• Drives: Provides the force or motivation for movement or action.
• Compels: Forces or obliges someone to do something.
• Motivates: Provides someone with a reason to act.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Impel" itself is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions. The force or motivation is typically direct.)

Related Idioms

• "To feel impelled to...": To feel a strong internal pressure or obligation to do something.
  • I felt impelled to offer my help when I saw the accident.

Verb

1. cause to move forward with force
   • Steam propels this ship
2. urge or force (a person) to an action; constrain or motivate