duress
word
Definition
Duress is when someone is forced to do something because of threats, pressure, or violence. It is often used in legal situations to show an action was not voluntary.
Usage & Nuances
'Duress' is a formal and mainly legal term. Common collocations: 'under duress', 'sign under duress', 'acted under duress'. Not the same as simple stress or everyday pressure—'duress' implies coercion, usually with threats.
Spanish: coacción - bajo presión (legal)Portuguese (BR): coação - sob pressão (jurídico)Portuguese (PT): coação - sob pressão (jurídico)Chinese (Simplified): 胁迫 - 强迫（法律用语）Chinese (Traditional): 脅迫 - 強迫（法律用語）Hindi: दबाव - दबाव की स्थिति (कानूनी)Arabic: إكراه - تحت الضغط (قانوني)Bengali: চাপ - হুমকিRussian: принуждениеJapanese: 強要Vietnamese: sự cưỡng épKorean: 강요Turkish: zorlamaUrdu: دباؤ - جبرIndonesian: paksaan
Example Sentences
He signed the contract under duress.
basic
The confession was obtained by duress.
basic
She acted under duress to protect her family.
basic
Many witnesses said their statements were given under duress.
natural
If you agree under duress, the deal may not be legally binding.
natural
No one should have to make decisions while under duress.
natural