# cornering

/ˈkɔɹnɝɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈɔːnəɹɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cornering
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

to force someone into a small space or difficult situation where they cannot easily escape. You use it when someone has to stop and face you or answer you.

For teachers: present participle of 'corner'; to force a person or animal into a confined place or difficult situation with no easy escape. Extends to dominating a market by controlling supply.

## Examples

- She is cornering him to ask about the money.
- The reporter kept cornering the mayor after the meeting to get an answer about the new taxes.
- Cornering the market requires buying enough of a product that others must buy from you, a tactic that can raise prices for everyone.

## Synonyms

trapping, confronting

## Antonyms

releasing, freeing

## Usage notes

- Transitive; takes a direct object naming the person, animal, or market being trapped or controlled.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.