force
/fɔːs/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Power or strength that makes something move, change, or happen. It can also mean strong pressure or influence on a person or group.
- The wind blew with great force.
- They used force to open the door.
- He spoke with quiet force.
verb
To make someone do something, or to make something happen against resistance. It can also mean to push or press something strongly.
- No one can force you to agree.
- The deadline forced us to hurry.
- She forced the window open.
Adinary Nuance
Force is stronger and less gentle than words like power, influence, or pressure. Use force when something is made to happen by strength, control, or resistance. Power is broader, and influence often works without direct pressure.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- sức mạnh
- Spanish
- fuerza
- Chinese
- 力量
- Japanese
- 力
- Korean
- 힘
Etymology
Force came into English from Old French in the Middle Ages. The French word came from Latin fortis, meaning 'strong'.
Common phrases
use forceby forceforce of natureforce someone’s hand
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between force and power?
- Force is direct strength or pressure. Power is broader and can mean ability, control, or influence.
- Is force used in formal writing?
- Yes. It is common in academic, legal, and news writing.
- Can force be a verb?
- Yes. As a verb, it means to make something happen or make someone do something.
- Is force always negative?
- No. It can be neutral, as in physical force. It can be negative when it means pressure or violence.