compels
Leaves no choice
Compels is the third-person singular of compel, meaning to force or drive someone toward an action.
External forces compel: The law compels disclosure.
Internal forces also compel: Something compelled her to look back.
What compels can be irresistible or merely persuasive—a compelling argument doesn't force agreement but strongly invites it.
Strength or compulsion
- pressureForce upon contact
- coerceObtain by intimidation
- demandForceful request or requirement
- imposeForce acceptance of
command · dictate · mandate · require · constrain · oblige · subjugate · overpower
Required moral task
- responsibilityState of being answerable
- requirementMandatory condition to fulfill
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
- mandateFormal authoritative directive
imperative · charge · burden · accountability · expectation · binding · oath · vow
force
Strength or compulsion
impose · command · dictate · mandate · require · constrain · oblige · subjugate · overpower · dominate
duty
Required moral task
- responsibilityState of being answerable
- requirementMandatory condition to fulfill
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
mandate · imperative · charge · burden · accountability · expectation · binding · oath · vow · honor
convince
Cause to believe
appeal · charm · captivate · entice · draw · attract · win over · engage · move · touch
drive
Operate a vehicle
necessity · need · passion · obsession · calling · conviction · inspire · propel · spur · move
compelssuggests
Conveys indirectly
recommends · proposes · encourages · invites · requests