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

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who remains a thundering force in the Democratic Party nearly two years after giving up her official leadership role, is best known for her behind-the scenes advice and occasional arm-twisting.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 19, 2024

On Thursday, after months of behind-the-scenes negotiations, arm-twisting and manoeuvring, he accomplished that task.

From BBC • Aug. 1, 2024

But in this case, the means of control is not legislation but behind-the scenes arm-twisting and threatened legal reprisals by government officials.

From Slate • Nov. 13, 2023

“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