Exaction

Exaction refers to the act of demanding and obtaining something, typically money or property, from someone, often through force, threat, or unjust authority. It implies an act of oppression, extortion, or the imposition of an excessive or unwarranted burden. exaction can be levied by governments, organizations, or individuals and often signifies an abuse of power or position. It involves a coercive element and suggests that the subject is not willingly giving up the asset. Exaction, at its core, centers on the forceful extraction of something valuable.

Exaction meaning with examples

• The corrupt government official's exaction of bribes from local businesses crippled the economy, as entrepreneurs feared the consequences of non-compliance. Many felt the demands were extortionate, and were unable to expand or even continue operations. The continuous exaction of these payments created widespread resentment and fueled public distrust, leading to protests and calls for reform, but they fell on deaf ears, as the government was protected by powerful figures.
• Following the devastating earthquake, some aid organizations were accused of exaction when they charged exorbitant fees for their services. Though the disaster had left people desperate, and they were willing to do anything to get help, including pay exorbitant prices. These accusations fueled outrage and further exacerbated the suffering of victims, as basic necessities were now inaccessible to the majority who could not afford them. This fueled accusations of profiteering during a time of crisis.
• The king's exaction of taxes and resources from the conquered provinces led to widespread rebellions and a long period of unrest. Though the king tried to rationalize this by pointing at the high cost of the war, the conquered people felt it was unjust and were being punished for the king's actions. The continuous imposition of tributes and levies placed an unbearable strain on the population, draining their wealth and livelihood, leading to resentment and violent resistance. The result was an empire, struggling to survive.
• During the gang's reign of terror, the exaction of protection money from local shopkeepers was a daily occurrence. Each shopkeeper was being terrorized with threats, and saw the exactions as the only way to continue doing business. Failure to comply often resulted in vandalism, threats, or even violence, further eroding their sense of security. This practice created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, forcing people to pay the exaction in order to be safe and able to keep their stores open.