strong-arm

[strawng-ahrm, strong-]

adjective

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

   strong-arm methods.

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

noun

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

   strong-arm tactics

verb

1. (tr) to show violence towards

Word History and Origins

Origin of strong-arm¹

An Americanism dating back to 1820–30

Example Sentences

He is both deflecting attention from his Epstein association and doubling down on his strong-arm tactics to break all resistance to his regime.

From Salon

He has applied the same strong-arm tactics to boardrooms and corporations, national media outlets, law firms and, most recently, comedians.

From Salon

All three were appointees of López Obrador, who repeatedly clashed with the justices about his strong-arm efforts to reform electoral law and other initiatives.

From Los Angeles Times

“That really resonated with people, that this was big industry trying to manipulate and strong-arm local voters,” Kalantari-Johnson told the publication.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump has outright admitted that he's attempting to strong-arm the news outlet into using the administration's preferred designation.

From Salon

Related Words

• browbeat 
• coerce 
• intimidate 
• terrorize