English Reference
Adjective

coercive

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

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.

He pleaded guilty to assault and controlling and coercive behaviour at the start of the trial on Monday, but denied charges of rape.

The Guardian· 22 Aug 2026

For now, analysts say Moscow is more likely to step up recruitment efforts through higher bonuses, pressure on regional officials and increasingly coercive tactics.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

From coerce + -ive.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated