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To force or oblige someone to do something, often against their will.
The court compelled the witness to testify.
The court legally required the witness to give evidence.
Circumstances compelled her to accept the job.
The situation left her with no choice but to take the job.
Commonly used in legal, moral, or situational contexts where external pressure is applied.
To bring about something by force or necessity.
The evidence compels the conclusion that he is guilty.
The evidence makes it necessary to conclude he is guilty.
Often used in reasoning or argumentation to indicate inevitability.
'Compel' implies external pressure forcing action, while 'impel' suggests internal motivation driving behavior (e.g., 'duty impelled her to act').
Reserve 'compel' for situations where someone or something outside the subject applies pressure (e.g., laws, circumstances, authorities).
From Latin *compellere* (com- 'together' + pellere 'to drive'), meaning 'to drive together' or 'to force'. Entered English in the 14th century via Old French *compeller*.
Used in formal contexts, often implying moral or legal obligation rather than physical force. Less intense than 'coerce' (which suggests duress) and more neutral than 'oblige' (which may imply kindness).