compel

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called the act a sign of moral collapse by “an enemy in disarray,” stating that such actions will not compel Iranians to surrender.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

Necessity is the mother of invention, as the saying goes, so forcing a team to play short-handed could compel remaining employees to find productivity hacks faster than they otherwise would have.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

Should the courts ultimately compel platforms to overhaul their products, the consequences could be severe.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

"A review does not carry the same powers to compel evidence, to test that evidence in public, or to deliver full transparency and accountability."

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

“Close your mouth,” said Minya, her voice like ice, and Sarai saw that it infuriated her that she couldn’t compel the living to obey her as easily as she did the dead.

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor