Question

Choose the correct synonym for the given word.
COERCE
a)Argue
b)Compel
c)Persuade
d)Insist

Answer 1

Hint: A synonym refers to a word that is similar in meaning to another word. For example- Pretty is the synonym of beautiful.

Complete step-by-step answer:

Coerce refers to pressurizing or forcing someone to do something. The word coerce has been derived from the Latin word- Coercere, which refers to being restrained.
We know the meaning and the origin of coerce. Now, let’s look at its usage:
Example- She was coerced into signing the agreement. Here, we can understand that ‘X’ was forced or pressurized to sign the agreement.
Let’s examine the given options:
a)Argue- It means to provide reasons or evidence in support of something. It is different in meaning to coerce. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
b)Compel- It means to be forced or constrained to do something. It is similar in meaning to coerce. Hence, it is the correct option.
c)Persuade- It means to convince or influence someone to do something through reasoning. It is different in meaning to coerce. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
d)Insist- It means to persist or persevere to do something. It is different in meaning to coerce. Hence, it is an incorrect option.
The correct answer is Option ‘b’.

Note: Compel involves pressurizing someone to do something, whereas persuade involves presenting reasons and arguments to make someone do something.