is compelled to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is compelled to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone is forced or obligated to do something, often due to external circumstances or pressures. Example: "She is compelled to follow the rules set by her employer to maintain her job security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But one is compelled to ask: Is anyone throwing punches?

The New York Times

Now Obama is compelled to engage.

The New York Times

Our species is compelled to make art.

Independent

No one is compelled to read it.

The Guardian

Yet, he is compelled to keep building.

The New York Times

"Morlock is compelled to offer testimony against others, including Wagnon".

The New York Times

No one is compelled to participate in these activities.

The Guardian

He is compelled to make meaning from whatever is there.

The New Yorker

"One is compelled to take risks," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

But when complications force Kristoffer into contact with the employees, the impostor is compelled to improvise.

The New Yorker

Al-Habsi dived, as he is compelled to do, but did not stand a chance.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Enhance clarity by specifying who or what is doing the compelling. For example: "The evidence is compelled to show ..."

Common error

Avoid using "is compelled to" when the action is merely a preference or suggestion, rather than a genuine obligation or necessity. This phrase implies a lack of free will, so ensure the context warrants such a strong assertion. Example: Instead of saying "He is compelled to attend the party", say "He feels obligated to attend the party" if it's a matter of social pressure rather than a strict requirement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is compelled to" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating obligation, necessity, or coercion. It shows that a subject is under some force, internal or external, that necessitates a particular action. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is compelled to" is a versatile expression used to convey a sense of obligation or necessity. Ludwig AI analysis and examples indicate that it is grammatically correct and frequently employed in news, science, and formal writing contexts. While several alternatives exist, such as "is obligated to" or "is forced to", the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding the contexts and source of compulsion is key to using this phrase effectively. Remember, the Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and common usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is obligated to

This alternative directly replaces 'compelled' with 'obligated', emphasizing a sense of duty or requirement.

is forced to

This alternative conveys a stronger sense of external pressure or lack of choice.

is required to

This alternative highlights a formal requirement or rule that must be followed.

has to

This is a more informal and concise way of expressing obligation.

is bound to

This suggests a contractual or moral obligation to do something.

is duty-bound to

This phrase strongly emphasizes a sense of moral or ethical obligation.

cannot avoid

This alternative emphasizes the inevitability of the action.

has no choice but to

This highlights the lack of alternatives and the necessity of the action.

is under an obligation to

This is a more formal and elaborate way of stating that someone is obligated.

is left with no option but to

This alternative emphasizes the limited choices and the forced nature of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "is compelled to" in a sentence?

Use "is compelled to" to indicate that someone or something is forced or obligated to do something, often due to external circumstances or pressure. For example: "The company "is compelled to" reduce costs due to market conditions".

What are some alternatives to "is compelled to"?

You can use alternatives such as "is obligated to", "is forced to", or "is required to" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "is compelled to" or "is obligated to"?

Both "is compelled to" and "is obligated to" indicate a sense of duty, but "is compelled to" suggests a stronger, often irresistible, force or pressure. "Is obligated to" is often used for formal duties or agreements.

What is the difference between "is compelled to" and "is willing to"?

"Is compelled to" indicates that someone is forced to do something against their will or due to external pressure, while "is willing to" implies a voluntary decision or desire to do something. They are essentially opposites.