compel
verb (used with object)
to force or drive, especially to a course of action.
had compelled
-
past perfectof compel.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
The FTC alleges in that litigation that Amazon had compelled sellers to use the company’s logistics service if they wanted their goods to be eligible for Amazon Prime shipping.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 25, 2025
While Ben-Gvir did not take responsibility for threatening O’Connor, he told Israeli radio that his efforts had compelled her to drop out.
From Seattle Times ● Jul. 27, 2023
She also described what she said were senior members of Mr. Paxton’s staff whose integrity had compelled them to speak up about his behavior.
From New York Times ● May 28, 2023
He had lived in each as a fledgling filmmaker before Hitler’s rise to power had compelled him, as a Jew, to flee Nazi Europe for America.
From Washington Post ● Oct. 3, 2022
Varys had saved him from a headsman’s sword, but only because Jaime had compelled him.
From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin
