be compelled by something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be compelled by something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a strong feeling or force that drives someone to act in a certain way or make a specific decision. Example: "She felt compelled by her conscience to speak out against the injustice she witnessed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

And voters appear to be compelled by Mrs. Edwards's battle.

The New York Times

"Seeing the emotional response the audience had to those voices, I realized, 'This is good stuff — this is something that people are compelled by,' " Mr. Nicola said.

The New York Times

She is compelled by her own logic.

The New York Times - Books

"We're compelled by complexity," Mr Kyffin says.

The Economist

So Jed is compelled by the destinations of his friends.

The New York Times

We're compelled by the performance of marriage in culture.

The New York Times

Human rights workers were compelled by his story, as well.

The New York Times

And we're compelled by a desire to benefit society.

Science Magazine

I was compelled by fiction.

Huffington Post

I was compelled by the Stravinsky blurb.

Los Angeles Times

Lana Del Rey revealed that she is compelled by Spears in an interview with MTV, saying, "I'm not really interested in a ton of female musicians but there is something about Britney that compelled me – the way she sings and just the way she looks".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the nuance: "compelled" implies a stronger force than "influenced" or "motivated". Choose the word that best reflects the intensity of the driving force.

Common error

Avoid using "be compelled by something" too frequently in passive voice, which can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Whenever possible, rephrase the sentence to use active voice for a more direct and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be compelled by something" functions as a passive construction indicating that someone or something is being strongly influenced or driven by a particular force, reason, or emotion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be compelled by something" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys a strong sense of influence or necessity driving an action or decision. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, and examples reveal its prevalence across various contexts, including news, science, and general media. While applicable in formal settings, it should be used judiciously to avoid overuse of passive constructions. Consider alternatives like "be driven by" or "be motivated by" to add nuance or variety to your writing. Remember, it's most effective when emphasizing a powerful force shaping an outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be impelled by something

This alternative, similar to "compelled", suggests a strong internal pressure to act.

be driven by something

This alternative uses "driven" instead of "compelled", suggesting a strong motivating force.

be motivated by something

This alternative focuses on the motivational aspect, implying a reason or incentive for action.

be influenced by something

This alternative suggests a more subtle effect, where something shapes or guides one's actions or thoughts.

be moved by something

This alternative emphasizes the emotional impact that leads to action.

feel a strong urge towards something

This alternative conveys the feeling of a powerful impulse directing one's actions.

be spurred on by something

This alternative implies an encouragement or stimulus to act.

be obliged by something

This alternative introduces a sense of duty or obligation as the driving force.

be led by something

This alternative emphasizes the guidance or direction provided by something.

find oneself drawn to something

This alternative describes a pull or attraction that influences behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "be compelled by something" in a sentence?

This phrase indicates that someone feels a strong internal or external pressure to act. For example, "She was "compelled by" her conscience to tell the truth".

What are some alternatives to "be compelled by something"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "be driven by", "be motivated by", or "be influenced by" to express similar ideas.

Is "compelled by" different from "motivated by"?

"Compelled by" suggests a stronger, almost unavoidable force, while "motivated by" implies a reason or incentive that encourages action.

Can "be compelled by something" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "be compelled by something" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when emphasizing the significant impact of something on a decision or action.