ENGLISH
REFERENCE

coercive

adj.
C1 Advanced US //koʊˈɝsɪv// UK //kˌəʊˈɜːsɪv// co·er·cive

adj. forcing someone to do something by using threats or pressure. In math, it describes a situation where you have to follow a rule because you have no other choice.

adj. compelling someone to do something through force, threats, or pressure. In a mathematical context, it describes a situation where a choice is not truly voluntary due to external constraints.


SIMPLE

The contract was signed under coercive conditions.

CONTEXTUAL

The game theory model shows that players may be forced into a specific strategy if they are in a coercive environment.

COMPLEX

In a coercive bargaining scenario, the outcome is often predetermined by the power imbalance between the parties, leaving little room for genuine negotiation or compromise.

Origin

From coerce + -ive.

© 2026 English Reference