Duress Meaning

Duress

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Threats, violence, constraints, or other forms of coercion used to force someone into doing something against their will.
2. A legal term referring to circumstances where a person is forced to act under threat or pressure, making their actions involuntary.
3. A situation in which an individual is subjected to extreme pressure or hardship that compromises their freedom of choice.
4. The use of force or intimidation to make someone comply with demands.

History and Origin

The word “duress” comes from the Latin duritia, meaning “hardness” or “harshness,” which later evolved into the Old French duresse and then into Middle English. Historically, duress referred to harsh conditions or situations, and over time, its use broadened to include threats or force that compelled someone to act against their will.

Detailed Explanation

Duress refers to the pressure or coercion that forces someone to act in a way they wouldn’t otherwise choose. It is often used in legal contexts to describe situations where a person is compelled to commit an act due to threats of harm, violence, or other significant threats. Duress invalidates voluntary consent, as the individual is unable to act freely. For example, someone might sign a contract or confession under duress if they are threatened with harm or extreme consequences if they don’t comply. Duress can be physical (e.g., threats of violence) or psychological (e.g., emotional manipulation).

Example Sentences

1. He signed the contract under duress, fearing for his family’s safety.
2. The defendant claimed that he had committed the crime under duress and should not be held fully responsible.
3. She was forced to give false testimony under duress from the authorities.
4. The employee felt she was under duress when asked to cover extra shifts at short notice.
5. The bank robbery was carried out under duress, as the criminals threatened the staff with weapons.
6. They later admitted to making the decision under duress, as they had no other option at the time.
7. The confession was deemed invalid, as the police had obtained it under duress.
8. The witness testified that the agreement was made under duress and was therefore not legally binding.
9. The child’s actions were done under duress, manipulated by the pressure from the group.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Coercion – The use of force or threats to make someone do something unwillingly.
2. Compulsion – The state of being forced or driven to do something, especially against one’s will.
3. Intimidation – The act of making someone fearful through threats or force.
4. Force – The use of physical strength or violence to control or influence someone.
5. Pressure – The influence exerted on someone to make them act in a certain way, often through stress or threats.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Threat – A declaration of intent to inflict harm or punishment on someone if they do not comply.
2. Blackmail – A form of duress where someone is threatened with the release of damaging information unless they comply with demands.
3. Extortion – The practice of obtaining something through threats or force.
4. Intimidating – Having the ability to make others feel afraid or reluctant to act.
5. Harassment – Unwanted or coercive behavior that pressures or intimidates someone.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Manipulation – Controlling or influencing someone unfairly to do something, often by emotional or psychological means.
2. Subjugation – The act of bringing someone under control or domination, often through force or pressure.
3. Threatening – Presenting a threat or danger, typically to coerce someone into doing something.
4. Overbearing – Dominating or excessively controlling, often through intimidation or force.
5. Abuse – The use of force or manipulation to control or harm someone, sometimes related to duress.

Antonyms

1. Volition
2. Consent
3. Freedom
4. Independence
5. Choice