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

Example Sentences

He can, in certain circumstances, strong-arm the world into realigning with his interests while sidestepping the tripwires that his predecessors worried would bring them down.

From Barron's • Jan. 7, 2026

Ian Paul, a conservative theologian and a member of the General Synod, denies that this amounted to "strong-arm tactics".

From BBC • Dec. 24, 2025

Freston’s unusual and messianic marketing department got megastars like David Bowie and Mick Jagger to scream, “I Want My MTV!”—a campaign designed to strong-arm cable systems into carrying the fledgling station.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 13, 2025

The fatigue grows more each time the Chiefs — who are playing in their fifth Super Bowl in the last six years — strong-arm AFC rivals Baltimore or Buffalo away from long-awaited breakthroughs.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 8, 2025

When Arthur had been unable to take a strong-arm castle by assault, he had caused tunnels to be dug under selected parts of the wafl.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White

Related Words

• browbeat
• coerce
• intimidate
• terrorize