Coercive

Coercive describes the use of force or threats to compel someone to do something against their will. It involves employing pressure, intimidation, or other controlling measures to influence behavior or decision-making. This pressure can manifest in various forms, from physical duress to economic sanctions, psychological manipulation, or the threat of social ostracization. Ultimately, a coercive action aims to override individual autonomy and force compliance through the imposition of external control. The target is left with a feeling of constraint and lack of choice.

Coercive meaning with examples

• The government implemented coercive economic sanctions against the nation, hoping to force a change in their political policies. This strategy, while aiming to be effective, led to unintended humanitarian consequences, increasing suffering among innocent civilians.
• The cult leader used coercive techniques, including sleep deprivation and emotional manipulation, to control the members' thoughts and actions, making them dependent on the group and him for direction and validation.
• In some workplaces, managers might use coercive tactics, such as threats of job loss or demotion, to push employees to meet unrealistic quotas, thus leading to a climate of fear and resentment among staff.
• During the interrogation, the police officer's coercive questioning, involving harsh language and intense psychological pressure, attempted to extract a confession from the suspect despite his repeated protestations of innocence.