Definition

Noun: * An aggressive and violent young criminal: A person, typically young, who uses physical force, intimidation, or threats to commit crimes or coerce others.

Usage

The word "strong-armer" is a specific and somewhat informal term. It is used to label an individual whose primary method of criminal activity is direct physical aggression or the threat of it. It emphasizes brute force over cunning or technical skill.

Examples

• The store owner was robbed by a strong-armer who threatened him with a baseball bat.
• The gang used strong-armers to collect protection money from local businesses.
• He started as a petty thief but evolved into a strong-armer for the mob.

Advanced Usage

• The term can sometimes be used more broadly to describe anyone who uses bullying tactics or coercion, not strictly in a criminal context, though this is less common.
  • The negotiator was a real strong-armer, trying to force the deal through with threats.

Variants and Related Words

• Strong-arm (adjective): Describing tactics that use force or threats.
  • The company used strong-arm tactics to stifle competition.
• Strong-arm (verb): To use force or threats against someone.
  • They tried to strong-arm him into signing the contract.

Synonyms

• Thug
• Enforcer
• Goon
• Muscleman
• Ruffian

Related Phrases

• Strong-arm tactics: Methods involving coercion, intimidation, or violence.
  • The regime held onto power through strong-arm tactics.
• Strong-arm robbery: A robbery committed using physical force or the immediate threat of force.

Noun

1. an aggressive and violent young criminal