compelled by the

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "compelled by the" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing a strong motivation or force driving someone to act. Example: "She felt compelled by the urgency of the situation to speak out." Alternative expressions include "driven by the" and "forced by the."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So Jed is compelled by the destinations of his friends.

The New York Times

The whole realm of the visible is compelled by the invisible.

The New Yorker

He is, it seems, genuinely compelled by the idea of capturing lived experience in paint.

The New York Times - Arts

More urgently, I am compelled by the book's sense of optimism.

The New York Times

In the end, we were more compelled by the similarities than the differences in that debate.

The New York Times

Yet still he runs for re-election, still he is compelled by the calling of Galatasaray.

The New York Times - Sports

But in the end, I am compelled by the book's sense of optimism.

The New York Times

Addicts are compelled by the same persistent emotional memories that drive other disorders.

The New Yorker

But I really am compelled by the books that I made.

The New York Times

Burton, as imagined by Troyanov, is compelled by the need to fill in the empty spaces.

The New York Times - Books

But Scott, a spinach-lover, has never been compelled by the search for the perfect tomato.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "compelled by the" to clearly indicate a strong influence or reason behind an action, ensuring the subject is clearly defined and the reason is explicit. For example, "The artist was compelled by the beauty of nature to create breathtaking landscapes."

Common error

Avoid using "compelled by the" when a milder influence is intended. If the influence is not strong or forceful, consider using alternatives such as "inspired by" or "influenced by" for greater accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compelled by the" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating the reason or force behind an action or state. Ludwig AI's examples show it describing what motivates someone to do something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "compelled by the" is a common and grammatically correct way to express strong motivation or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides numerous examples across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it effectively conveys a sense of being driven or influenced, making it a versatile choice for writers. When using the phrase, ensure that the strength of the compulsion aligns with the intended meaning to avoid overstatement. Consider alternatives like "driven by the" or "influenced by the" for milder contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impelled by the

Similar to compelled, but can suggest a more forceful push.

driven by the

Focuses on internal motivation rather than external force.

motivated by the

Highlights the incentive aspect of being compelled.

influenced by the

Emphasizes the effect of something on one's actions.

prompted by the

Suggests a more immediate and direct cause.

inspired by the

Implies a positive and uplifting influence.

moved by the

Conveys a sense of emotional influence.

actuated by the

More formal and emphasizes the initiation of action.

constrained by the

Focuses on the limiting or restricting aspect of the influence.

obliged by the

Highlights a sense of duty or requirement.

FAQs

How can I use "compelled by the" in a sentence?

Use "compelled by the" to show that someone or something is driven to action by a powerful force or reason. For example, "The activists were compelled by the injustice to organize a protest."

What are some alternatives to "compelled by the"?

You can use alternatives like "driven by the", "motivated by the", or "influenced by the" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "compelled to" instead of "compelled by the"?

Yes, "compelled to" is also correct, but it is typically followed by a verb, while "compelled by the" is followed by a noun or noun phrase. For example, "He was compelled to speak" versus "He was compelled by the urgency of the situation."

What's the difference between "compelled by the" and "forced by the"?

"Compelled by the" often implies an internal or external pressure that strongly influences someone's actions, while "forced by the" suggests a more direct and often unwilling action. "Forced by the" typically indicates a lack of choice.