compel to

USAGE SUMMARY

"compel to" is a valid phrase in written English.
You can use it in the context of an external force causing someone to do something. For example, "The harsh working conditions compelled him to seek a new job."

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

In an admiring essay, the academics Judith Leemann and Shannon Stratton noted the power of an artistic language "to invoke, to compel, to falsify first, if need be, the thing one wishes into being".

The New Yorker

"This Is Martin Bonner" is a story of mutual redemption, starring the Australian actor Paul Eenhoorn as a man at the far end of middle age whom divorce and bankruptcy compel to start over.

The New Yorker

The soprano Barbara Bonney is Zdenka, Arabella's younger sister, whom her parents compel to dress and live as a young man, since the family cannot afford to introduce two daughters to society.

The New York Times - Arts

E-mail address GO SIGN UP Share Tweet "This Is Martin Bonner" is a story of mutual redemption, starring the Australian actor Paul Eenhoorn as a man at the far end of middle age whom divorce and bankruptcy compel to start over.

The New Yorker

However, scarcity of fresh water in coastal areas may compel to use saline water.

International Journal of Geo-Engineering

Today storyboards are used for planning ad campaigns, commercials, proposals, and other projects intended to convince or compel to action.

Effective Prototyping with Excel A Practical Handbook for Developers and Designers

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

To compel scientists to act ethically?

Science Magazine

"I was compelled to.

The New Yorker

Our species is compelled to make art.

Independent

"I felt compelled to find out".

The New York Times

Writers are compelled to assault taboos.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is doing the compelling, to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "compel to" excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise verbs like "mandate", "necessitate", or "oblige" depending on the nuance you intend to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compel to" functions as a verb phrase indicating causation or obligation. It highlights an external force influencing someone's actions. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in various contexts, from legal decisions to personal motivations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "compel to" is a grammatically acceptable phrase used to indicate that someone or something is forcing a particular action. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's important to consider synonyms like "force", "oblige", or "require", especially in formal contexts. Usage patterns show it is most common in News & Media and Science. When writing, remember to ensure clarity about the source of compulsion. Although acceptable, opting for alternatives can sometimes improve the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

force someone to

Implies the use of power or authority to make someone do something.

oblige someone to

Suggests a moral or legal duty to do something.

require someone to

Indicates a formal necessity or condition.

make someone do

A more direct and less formal way of expressing compulsion.

cause someone to

Focuses on the causal relationship leading to an action.

pressure someone into

Implies persuasion or influence to get someone to do something.

drive someone to

Suggests a strong motivation or circumstance that leads to an action.

coerce someone into

Indicates the use of threats or intimidation to force action.

push someone to

Suggests encouragement or urging to do something.

leave someone no choice but to

Emphasizes the lack of alternatives, compelling a specific action.

FAQs

What does "compel to" mean?

The phrase "compel to" means to force or oblige someone to do something. It implies a strong influence or necessity that drives a particular action.

How can I use "compel to" in a sentence?

You can use "compel to" to show that someone or something is forcing someone else to do something. For example: "The evidence compelled the jury to reach a guilty verdict."

What are some alternatives to "compel to"?

Alternatives to "compel to" include "force someone to", "oblige someone to", "require someone to", or "make someone do". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "compel to" always the best choice, or are there situations where other phrases are more appropriate?

While "compel to" is grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound awkward or less precise than alternatives like "force someone to" or "require someone to", particularly in formal writing. Consider the specific nuance you want to convey.