intimidation

American  

[in-tim-i-dey-shuhn] / ɪnˌtɪm ɪˈdeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act of inducing fear or awe.

   The true motive of most street harassment is intimidation.

2. the act or process of attempting to force or deter an action by inducing fear.

   She spoke passionately about the violence and intimidation suffered by African Americans in Mississippi seeking to register to vote.

---

Etymology

Origin of intimidation

intimid(ate) ( def. ) + -ation ( def. )

Example Sentences

In earlier crossings, returnees complained of intimidation and harsh treatment by the Popular Forces, but Imran said they did not harass her when they searched belongings.

From Los Angeles Times

He added the incident was particularly concerning for younger reporters: "We've got some who are as young as 20, just getting into the industry, who shouldn't be subjected to bullying or intimidation."

From BBC

Bennett argued presciently that by kowtowing to radicals, “a great university was brought low by the very forces which modern universities came into being to oppose: ignorance, irrationality and intimidation.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Takaichi’s calm approach shows the limits of the intimidation tactics China employs, particularly when it comes to Taiwan.

From The Wall Street Journal

Some academics also reported intimidation by visiting scholars or other Chinese officials, as well as by staff at Confucius Institutes.

From BBC

Related Words

• coercion