Another Word For Duress

Meaning

The term "duress" refers to a situation where someone is forced to act against their will or judgment due to threats, coercion, or pressure. This can include physical violence, psychological intimidation, or other forms of compulsion that make an individual feel they have no choice but to comply.

Synonyms

• Coercion
• Compulsion
• Intimidation
• Pressure
• Constraint

Antonyms

• Freedom
• Volition
• Choice
• Autonomy
• Liberty

Etymology

The word "duress" comes from the Latin term "duritia," which means "hardness" or "hard treatment." It evolved into the Old French "duresse" and entered the English language in the late 14th century.

Examples

1. The confession given by the suspect was deemed invalid as it was made under duress.
2. She felt immense duress when pressured by her colleagues to follow an unethical business practice.
3. Contracts signed under duress are often considered void in a court of law.