Extortion

(Noun) | Pronunciation: /ɪkˈstɔːr.ʃən/

Definition & Meaning

The word “extortion” refers to the act of obtaining money, property, or services from someone through force, threats, or intimidation. It is a criminal offense often associated with blackmail or coercion.

💡 Did You Know? Extortion is different from theft because the victim gives up their property under pressure rather than having it taken outright!

Word Origin & History

• Etymology: Derived from the Latin word extortio, meaning “a twisting out,” which comes from extorquere (to wrench or twist out).
• Historical Usage: The term has been used in legal and criminal contexts for centuries, often referring to corrupt officials or criminals forcing payments from victims.
• Cultural Influence: Extortion is a common theme in crime stories, movies, and real-life legal cases.

📖 Example: The businessman refused to give in to the mafia’s extortion demands.

Synonyms & Antonyms

🔹 Synonyms (words with similar meanings)

• Blackmail
• Coercion
• Shakedown
• Threats

🔻 Antonyms (opposite meanings)

• Fairness
• Voluntary giving
• Honest dealing
• Generosity

💡 Word Tip: Extortion usually involves threats, but blackmail specifically refers to threats involving revealing secrets or damaging information.

Example Sentences

✅ The gang was arrested for extortion after demanding protection money from local businesses.
✅ The politician was accused of using extortion to silence his rivals.
✅ He reported the case of extortion to the police before paying the demanded sum.
✅ The victim refused to give in to the blackmailer’s extortion attempts.
✅ Some corrupt officials engage in extortion to make illegal profits.
✅ The criminal was convicted of fraud and extortion.
✅ Cybercriminals use ransomware for digital extortion.
✅ The mob’s extortion racket terrorized the small town.
✅ Many businesses suffer from extortion in areas controlled by organized crime.

Related Words & Phrases

These words are commonly associated with “extortion”:

• Blackmail
• Coercion
• Bribery
• Corruption
• Ransom
• Fraud
• Intimidation
• Shakedown

Example: The phrase “extortion scheme” refers to a planned operation where threats are used to obtain money or favors.

Usage Trends & Popularity

🧐 Trending Now: Cyber extortion cases are rising, where hackers demand ransom to unlock victims’ data.
📢 Discuss: Should laws against extortion be stricter for online crimes?

Fun Activities & Challenges

🔠 Word Puzzle: Unscramble this word → O T X I R T E O N

🧠 Quick Quiz:
💭 Which of these is a form of extortion?
A) Asking for a donation
B) Threatening to harm someone if they don’t pay ✅
C) Giving a loan

✍ Word Story Challenge: Write a short crime story where a detective uncovers an extortion plot!

User Contributions & Comments

💬 Share Your Thoughts: Have you ever heard of a real-life extortion case?
📢 Join the discussion below!

Advanced Learning & Fun Facts

Idioms & Phrases

• “Extortion racket” – An organized crime scheme involving threats to gain money.
• “Legal extortion” – A term used to criticize unfair but legal practices, like high fees or taxes.

Legal & Criminal Use

• In Law: Extortion is considered a serious crime in most legal systems.
• In Business: Corrupt officials or businesses may use extortion to pressure competitors.

Famous Quotes

“Power without accountability leads to corruption and extortion.”
— Legal Scholar

💡 Did You Know? In some countries, extortion carries a penalty of life imprisonment!