Strong-arm

To use force, coercion, or intimidation to achieve a desired outcome. It implies the employment of aggressive tactics, often involving threats or physical power, to compel someone to comply with demands. This action is usually taken when other methods of persuasion or negotiation have failed, or are considered too time-consuming or ineffective. It often violates ethical standards and can lead to legal repercussions, depending on the severity and nature of the actions employed. The term encompasses a range of behaviors, from subtle pressure tactics to outright physical violence, all sharing the common thread of leveraging power to control another's actions.

Strong-arm meaning with examples

• The mob boss was known to strong-arm local businesses, demanding protection money and threatening those who refused to pay. His reputation for using violence ensured compliance, as most owners feared the consequences of defiance.
• After the negotiations broke down, the union threatened to strong-arm the company with a strike, hoping to force a more favorable contract. This action was intended to pressure the management to concede to the workers' demands and improve working conditions.
• During the interrogation, the detective used aggressive tactics to strong-arm the suspect into confessing. The pressure tactic aimed to break the suspect's resolve and get the information needed for the investigation, despite potential ethical concerns.
• The politician attempted to strong-arm the committee into approving the budget by threatening to withhold campaign funding from any dissenting members. This use of political leverage aimed to secure the budget's passage by exploiting the members' vulnerability.