strong-arm

American  

[strawng-ahrm, strong-] / ˈstrɔŋˌɑrm, ˈstrɒŋ- /

adjective

1. using, involving, or threatening the use of physical force or violence to gain an objective.

   strong-arm methods.

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verb (used with object)

1. to use violent methods upon; assault.

2. to rob by force.

3. to coerce by threats or intimidation; bully.

   They strong-armed me into voting for the plan.

strong-arm British  

noun

1. (modifier) relating to or involving physical force or violence

   strong-arm tactics

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verb

1. (tr) to show violence towards

Etymology

Origin of strong-arm

An Americanism dating back to 1820–30

Explanation

To strong-arm someone is to force them to do something. When you strong-arm your sister into getting out of your bedroom, you physically push her out the door. Bullies strong-arm smaller kids into handing over their lunch money, and powerful countries strong-arm weaker ones into cooperating with treaties and alliances. In the second example, a figurative kind of strong-arming is going on; there is no physical action, just the implied threat of negative consequences. You can also use this word as an adjective: "Your strong-arm tactics don't scare me!"

Related Words

• browbeat
• coerce
• intimidate
• terrorize