English Reference
adjective

forced

adj.
US /ˈfɔɹst/ UK /fˈɔːst/ forced

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    not natural or sincere; you do it because you feel you have to.

    produced by effort or strain rather than being spontaneous or sincere.

    Simple

    She gave a forced smile even though she was actually quite annoyed.

    In context

    The comedian's performance felt forced, as if he were reciting lines from memory rather than engaging with the audience's energy.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    done because you are made to do it or have no other choice.

    resulting from compulsion or external necessity.

    Simple

    The heavy snow led to the forced cancellation of all flights.

    In context

    The company's restructuring resulted in the forced redundancy of several long-term employees who had hoped to retire there.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    opened using physical power or tools, usually because it was locked.

    opened or accessed through the application of physical strength or mechanical leverage.

    Simple

    The police found a forced window at the back of the house.

    In context

    Investigators noted that the safe showed signs of a forced entry, suggesting the burglars had used heavy machinery to bypass the lock.

Usage forced to flee · forced some people · forced the evacuation

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated