duress
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “duress” mean?
noun.threats, violence, constraints, or other action brought to bear on someone to do something against their will or better judgment.
SAT Usage
this term is often found in contexts involving legal situations, ethical dilemmas, or discussions of coercion and consent. It emphasizes the pressure or force applied to compel someone to act against their will, distinguishing it from mere influence or persuasion by highlighting the element of violation or threat.
Common Confusions
Duress implies coercion through threats or force, while influence usually suggests a more subtle or persuasive power without the element of intimidation or violation.
Do not choose duress if the context emphasizes voluntary actions or choices rather than threats, violence, constraints, or other action brought to bear on someone to do something against their will or better judgment.
Example Sentences
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The contract was signed under duress and was later declared invalid.
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He signed the confession under duress.