quell
Verb
Medium difficulty
What does “quell” mean?
verb.to put an end to (a rebellion or other disorder), typically by the use of force.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in contexts related to conflict, authority, or social unrest, emphasizing the use of force or authority to suppress opposition or disorder. It differs from similar words like "alleviate" or "mitigate," which suggest easing or lessening a situation without necessarily implying forceful action.
Common Confusions
Quell implies the use of force to suppress disorder, while pacify usually suggests calming or soothing without aggression.
Do not choose quell if the context emphasizes calmness or peace rather than putting an end to a rebellion or disorder, typically by the use of force.
Example Sentences
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Officers struggled to quell the riot in the city streets.
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To quell the unrest among the students, the administration organized a town hall meeting to address their concerns and promote open dialogue.