twisting someone's arm

Coercing through persistence

Twisting someone's arm means pressuring or persuading them to do something they're reluctant to do.

The image is of applying physical force to compel compliance, but the phrase is almost always figurative: I didn't want to go, but she twisted my arm.

Often used with mock reluctance when agreeing to something actually desired: Well, if you twist my arm, I'll have another drink.

Related

urging · bargaining · compromising · pulling strings · flattering · peer pressure · emotional manipulation · gaslighting · persuading · cajoling · manipulating · compelling · strongarming · blackmailing · shaming · bending the rules · intimidating · influencing

Opposites
persuasion method

twisting someone's arminviting

Attractively appealing

suggesting · making a case · proposing · entreating · soft sell

respect for autonomy

twisting someone's armbacking off

Ceasing to pursue

letting it go · stepping back · acquiescing · yielding

coercion vs. voluntary compliance

twisting someone's armvolunteering

Giving service without pay

enthusiastic consent · happy to help · self-motivated · free will

Family

twist, twisting, twisted, twister, twisters, twists, someone

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated PG