Compel Meaning
Compel Definition & Usage
To force or drive someone into a particular action or behavior, often against their will.
Examples
- "The powerful speech compelled the audience to take action."
- "Her urgent plea compelled him to reconsider his decision."
- "The court's ruling compelled the company to pay a fine."
- "His desperation to succeed compelled him to work late into the night."
- "The law compels all drivers to wear seat belts."
To cause or bring about a strong emotional reaction in someone.
Examples
- "The moving documentary compelled tears from the audience."
- "Her kindness and compassion compelled him to open up about his struggles."
- "The tragic story compelled a deep sense of empathy in everyone who heard it."
- "The artist's masterpiece compelled admiration from critics and visitors alike."
- "The beauty of the sunset compelled a sense of awe in the onlookers."
Cultural Context
The verb 'compel' comes from the Latin 'compellere', meaning 'to drive together', 'to force'. Over time, it has come to be associated with both physical and emotional coercion or persuasion. In legal and social contexts, the term often refers to actions mandated by law or strong authority. In artistic or emotional settings, it is used to describe the ability to evoke deep feelings or reactions.
The Compelling Argument
Story
The Compelling Argument
In a small town, a young lawyer named Emma was known for her brilliant ability to convince people. One day, she was tasked with defending an innocent man accused of a crime he didn’t commit. The evidence was stacked against him, and the case seemed impossible. But Emma wasn’t one to give up. As the trial continued, she began to use her words to compel the jury to see the case from a different angle. Every piece of evidence she presented was carefully crafted to appeal to the jury’s sense of justice. Her argument was so powerful, it compelled the jurors to reconsider their preconceived notions. The courtroom was silent as Emma spoke, and when the jury finally returned, their verdict was clear: not guilty. Emma’s ability to compel the jury’s emotions and thoughts was the key to her success. But it wasn’t just her logical arguments that worked. She also knew how to compel people to act with compassion and empathy. Later, in the evening, her friend Sarah asked how she did it. 'I didn’t just present facts,' Emma replied, 'I compelled them to feel what was right, not just think it.' Sarah smiled, understanding that Emma's gift was in using both reason and emotion to influence others.
Related Words
