had been coercing

• past perfect progressive

  past perfect progressive

  Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.

  of coerce.
  coerce

  verb (used with object)

  to compel by force, intimidation, or authority, especially without regard for individual desire or volition.

Related Words

• browbeat
• bully
• intimidate
• repress
• strong-arm
• suppress
• terrorize