Force & Obligation

to make someone do something by putting them under pressure, especially to get money from them

The loan shark put the squeeze on him, threatening violence if he didn't repay the borrowed money immediately.

to place someone in a situation in which they have no choice but to accept one's offer or request

The unscrupulous landlord had the tenants over a barrel, raising the rent exorbitantly with no alternative affordable housing options available.

to make use of one's power or authority to force someone to work harder or behave better

The new manager cracked the whip in the office, implementing strict rules and tight deadlines to improve productivity and efficiency.

to be placed in a problematic situation to which there is no favorable solution

The company's financial troubles left them boxed into a corner, with limited options but to downsize and restructure.

to have no option but to make use of people or things of very poor quality

The company was desperate to hire new employees and had to scrape the barrel, resorting to candidates with minimal qualifications and experience.

to do something without real interest, feeling, or effort

After the breakup, she continued to attend social events but just went through the motions, feeling empty inside.

the feeling or belief that one must do or accomplish something

When disaster struck, the firefighters responded to the call of duty, risking their lives to save others.

to get an advantage from doing something that is forced upon one

After their flight was canceled, the couple decided to make a virtue of necessity and turned their unexpected staycation into a memorable adventure exploring their own city.

used to say that someone has two options, either accept what has been said or leave it be

The manager's leadership style was "my way or the highway," leaving little room for collaboration or input from the team.

something that limits or takes away one's freedom to do what one wants

He often referred to his demanding job as the ball and chain that prevented him from pursuing his true passions.

a set of instructions from a person in authority concerning what one must do or how to do it

After the disappointing sales results, the CEO gave the marketing team their marching orders to come up with a new and innovative campaign.

offered or provided without any hidden agendas, requirements, or consequences

The company offered a free trial of their software with no strings attached, allowing users to test it without any obligations or commitments.