arm-twisting

American  

[ahrm-twis-ting] / ˈɑrmˌtwɪs tɪŋ /

Or armtwisting

noun

1. the use of threat, coercion, or other forms of pressure and persuasion to achieve one's purpose.

   It took a lot of arm-twisting but he finally agreed to work this weekend.

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Etymology

Origin of arm-twisting

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

In Westminster a lot of power is derived from patronage, as well as feelings of loyalty to a party, plus occasional warnings, threats and arm-twisting.

From BBC • Jun. 18, 2025

This time, it appears, no U.S. arm-twisting will be needed.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 21, 2025

After some arm-twisting behind closed doors and a choice phone call or two, though, Self and Norman changed their votes to Johnson, and Washington’s weekend was salvaged.

From Slate • Jan. 4, 2025

“He was very good at making it in people’s interests to be cooperating with him. I don’t know if he did arm-twisting exactly. It was implicit, I would say.”

From Salon • Oct. 12, 2023

Donovan’s right-hand man—James Roosevelt, the president’s oldest son—did some arm-twisting, too.

From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield