he compels

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he compels" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who exerts a strong influence or force on another person to do something. Example: "He compels his team to work harder by setting high expectations and leading by example."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Finally, he comes around to his demand, or rather, he compels me to make it explicit.

The New Yorker

I thought I knew a little how he compels, beyond all things, but now he stands there in the shadows.

The Guardian - Books

"But I will have to kiss you, you know.... " With one thick finger he compels her to look into his face.

The New Yorker

After the stares and the whispers and the snide comments, the mild-mannered and insignificant Furo finds��that he compels attention and respect, because he is white.

The Guardian - Books

Owen Sejake has such a massive presence as the kindly but ineffectual Simon that he compels interest in the character and implies an unexplored hinterland.

The Guardian

In Germany he compels a crowd to kneel before him in mute, terrified awe, and "The Avengers," which recently opened there to huge box office returns, expects a similarly submissive audience here at home.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

He compelled Muḥammad Shah to cede to him the province of Kabul.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Shortly afterward, he compelled Bona to leave Milan and assumed the regency for his nephew.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He compelled his son to serve in his shop, also conscripting him into a church choir, which he himself conducted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

By going shotgun, he compelled defenses to treat Newton as a run-and-pass threat on every down.

The New York Times

He would probably have faulted Mr. Edwards for squeaking so noisily that he compelled the righteous to crack down.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he compels" when you want to emphasize a strong, often irresistible, influence that a person exerts over another to perform a specific action.

Common error

Avoid using "he compels" in passive constructions where the agent of compulsion is unclear or diluted. Focus on active voice for clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he compels" functions as a verb phrase in the third-person singular, present tense. It describes an action performed by a male subject, indicating that he is exerting influence or force on someone or something. According to Ludwig, the phrase is deemed correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he compels" is a grammatically sound and relatively frequent expression used to convey the action of someone exerting strong influence or force over another. It's most commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias and science contexts, and has a formal to neutral register. According to Ludwig, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and functions effectively to describe acts of influence or necessity. When writing, consider that the context determines the appropriateness of this phrase. Its strength may be toned down by alternatives, such as "he influences", or increased by "he forces".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he forces

Emphasizes the use of authority or strength to make someone do something.

he coerces

Suggests the use of pressure or intimidation to achieve compliance.

he obliges

Suggests a sense of moral or legal duty that necessitates action.

he necessitates

Highlights that something becomes essential or unavoidable.

he requires

Implies a formal demand or condition that must be met.

he drives

Highlights a strong impetus or force behind someone's actions.

he pressures

Indicates persistent attempts to persuade someone to act.

he induces

Suggests persuasion or encouragement that leads to an action.

he influences

Implies a subtle or indirect effect on someone's actions.

he motivates

Focuses on providing a reason or incentive for someone to act.

FAQs

What does "he compels" mean?

The phrase "he compels" means that someone forces or strongly persuades another person to do something. It indicates a degree of influence or authority.

How can I use "he compels" in a sentence?

You can use "he compels" to describe a situation where someone uses their influence to make another person act in a certain way. For example, "He compels his team to work harder by setting high expectations."

What are some alternatives to "he compels"?

Alternatives include phrases like "he forces", "he obliges", or "he requires", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "he compels" and "he asks"?

"He compels" implies a degree of force or necessity, while "he asks" simply suggests a request. Compelling indicates a stronger influence than a mere request.