Mandatory moves: comparing "forced" and "compulsory"

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 19/11/2024, 05:38

English.me team member

Forced and compulsory. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "forced" and "compulsory" imply a lack of choice and describe actions or conditions that are imposed on someone or something. They both suggest that something must be done or is unavoidable.

What is different?

"Forced" often implies use of coercion or pressure to make someone do something, and can be used in various contexts including physical force. "Compulsory" generally refers to requirements set by rules or laws, and is more commonly used in formal, institutional, or bureaucratic contexts.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Forced

She was forced to leave the house because of the fire.
He was forced to apologize after the misunderstanding.
The coach forced the team to run extra laps.

Compulsory

Wearing a helmet is compulsory for all cyclists.
The course includes several compulsory subjects.
Attendance at the meeting is compulsory for all staff members.