forcing

forc-ing · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    Present participle of "force"; compelling or obliging someone to do something.

  2. 2.

    Pushing or driving with strength or violence.

  3. 3.

    Causing plants to grow or bloom faster than normal through artificial conditions.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    forcing the issue — compelling a decision or resolution
  • •
    forcing a smile — making oneself smile without genuine feeling
  • •
    forcing one's hand — compelling someone to act prematurely

Related words

Antonyms: allowing, permitting
See also: coercion, force, forced
Synonyms: coercing, compelling, driving, pressing

Etymology

From Old French forcier ("to force"), from Late Latin fortiare, with the present participle ending -ing.