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

Reid isn’t worried, arguing that the new chair won’t be able to strong-arm the whole committee into rate cuts.

From Barron's

"It is a certain restriction of our freedoms," Ivanov said of the plans to strong-arm users into switching.

From Barron's

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

From Salon

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

Having fought epidemics around the world, Farrar cited examples of when strong-arm surveillance pushed outbreaks underground.

From Salon

Related Words

• browbeat
• coerce
• intimidate
• terrorize