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force

/fɔːs/

When used as a noun to describe strength or coercion, 'force' is often uncountable (e.g., "use force"). However, when referring to an organized group like the police, it is a countable noun (e.g., "a task force"). As a verb, 'force' is almost always followed by an object and then an infinitive verb (e.g., "force someone TO do something").

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Sarah is staring at a blank canvas on her monitor while David is in a 'strategy' meeting.
David Smith

Can you force the client to sign off by 5? Need that win.

David Smith
Sarah
Sarah

I'm not exactly in a position to lean on them, Dave.

💡
David uses 'force' as a verb meaning to make someone do something against their will/preference. Sarah responds with the idiom 'lean on', which means to put pressure on someone to get what you want, reflecting her reluctance to do David's dirty work.

Meanings

noun

Strength or energy as manifested in physical action or movement.

"The force of the wind knocked down several trees."

noun

Coercion used to make someone do something against their will.

"The police were called to remove the protesters by force."

noun

An organized body of people, typically military or police.

"The task force was assigned to investigate the fraud case."

verb (transitive)

To make someone do something against their will using pressure or threats.

"They tried to force him to sign the contract."

verb (transitive)

To make something happen or be the case by effort or insistence.

"She managed to force a smile despite her sadness."

Examples

The force of that wave almost swept me away!

I won't let you force me into this deal!

Stop trying to force a conversation, it is just awkward.

Don't use force to open the door; it is jammed!

We had to call in a task force for this.

I can't believe they used force to clear the square.

Just force yourself to smile for the camera, okay?

Look, I cannot force you to stay if you hate it.

The police force is already on their way here.

Who gave you the right to force my hand?

Related Words

Last Updated: May 21, 2026Report an Error