Compulsion

Pronunciation: /kəmˈpʌlʃən/

Compulsion (noun)

  1. A strong feeling that makes someone do something even if they don't want to.
  2. An action that someone feels they must take, often against their will.

Examples

  • There is a strong compulsion to eat when feeling stressed.
  • The compulsion to act quickly can lead to mistakes.

Common collocations: feel a compulsion, overcome a compulsion, act on compulsion, resist compulsion

Synonyms of Compulsion

Formal

Neutral

Antonyms of Compulsion

  • The absence of compulsion allows for freedom of choice.
  • Volition contrasts with compulsion, emphasizing choice.