To use force, threats, or intimidation to coerce someone into doing something or to gain something. This can involve physical violence or the threat thereof, but also extends to less overt forms of pressure, such as leveraging power, influence, or authority to compel compliance. The act implies an imbalance of power where the perpetrator exploits their advantage to overcome the resistance or will of the target. It is often associated with illicit activities, but can also be used in legal but ethically questionable scenarios to achieve a desired outcome. The motivation behind strongarming is usually self-serving, focused on gaining an advantage, avoiding losses, or eliminating competition.
Strongarm meaning with examples
- The loan shark threatened to strongarm the small business owner if he didn't repay the debt on time, resorting to implied threats of violence. His strong arm tactics included warnings about potential property damage and harm to family. The owner, fearing for his family's safety, agreed to an impossible repayment schedule, highlighting the power imbalance and coercive nature of the interaction.
- The union leader attempted to strongarm the company into agreeing to higher wages by threatening a strike, even if the company faced imminent closure. The leader tried to strongarm the company management by threatening a costly strike, hoping to leverage the situation. His actions, while potentially beneficial for the workers, arguably employed coercive means and caused stress.
- The corrupt politician was accused of trying to strongarm the witness into changing their testimony by offering bribes and making veiled threats about their family. His actions could be viewed as an abuse of power. The use of threats, which is the same as the use of strong arm tactics, aimed to manipulate the truth and protect his own interests.
- The bully tried to strongarm the younger student into handing over their lunch money through threats of physical harm and intimidation, revealing his intent. His power in the situation made him able to bully another person, making it an example of his strong arming.
- The CEO used his position to strongarm the board of directors into approving a controversial merger by implying future job security and benefits would hinge on their vote. The CEO used an underhanded plan to leverage his status. This is an example of strong arming to ensure approval.