Compel vs. Impel – Which is Correct?
In the English language, the words compel and impel both convey a sense of force or driving motivation, but they serve different nuances in context. While to compel means to force someone to act in a certain way, to impel implies a strong urge or instinct to act. Understanding the differences and appropriate usage can greatly enhance clarity in communication.
Compel or Impel – Which is Correct?
Both compel and impel are correct words in the English language; however, they have distinct meanings and contexts for their usage. Compel is used when someone is forced to take action, typically against their will. In contrast, impel suggests a driving force or encouragement that leads someone to act voluntarily.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Compel | When someone is forced to act, often against their will. | The teacher had to compel the students to finish their assignments. |
| Impel | When someone feels a strong urge or instinct to act. | Her passion for helping others impelled her to volunteer at the shelter. |
How to Use Compel
Use the word compel to indicate that someone is being forced to do something. This can include physical actions, emotions, or social pressures that lead a person to act against their desire.
Example 1: The law can compel citizens to serve on a jury.
Example 2: Societal norms often compel individuals to conform to expectations.
Example 3: His guilt compelled him to confess to the crime.
What are the different forms of Compel?
Compel is a verb that forms its tenses regularly. The base or infinitive form is “to compel.” In the present tense, it is used as “I compel,” “you compel,” “he/she/it compels,” etc. The past tense is “I compelled,” “you compelled,” and “he/she/it compelled.” The present participle form is “compelling,” while the past participle form is “compelled.”
Etymology of the word Compel
The word compel originates from the Latin verb compellere, which means “to drive together.” It entered the English language in the 14th century, maintaining a similar meaning of forcing someone to act.
How to Use Impel
Use the word impel to express a strong internal motivation or urge to take action. It conveys a sense of encouragement rather than force.
Example 1: The thrill of adventure impelled him to travel the world.
Example 2: Her curiosity impels her to explore new ideas.
Example 3: A desire for justice impels many to advocate for social change.
What are the different forms of Impel?
Impel is also a regular verb with various forms. The base form is “to impel.” In the present tense, it is “I impel,” “you impel,” “he/she/it impels,” etc. The past tense is “I impelled,” “you impelled,” and “he/she/it impelled.” The present participle form is “impelling,” and the past participle form is “impelled.”
Etymology of the word Impel
The word impel comes from the Latin verb impellere, meaning “to drive forward.” It has been used in English since the late 15th century and retains the sense of urging someone toward action.
Practice Exercises
- She felt a strong urge to ______ her friend to seek help.
- His strong conviction will ______ him to speak out.
- The coach had to ______ the team to push through the pain.
- The artist was ______ by her love for nature.
- They were ______ by their parents to choose more practical careers.
Answer Key
- impel
- impel
- compel
- impelled
- compelled
Compel Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Force | To make someone do something against their will. |
| Coerce | To persuade someone to do something by using force or threats. |
| Compel | To drive or force someone to act. |
Impel Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Drive | To urge or force someone to take action. |
| Motivate | To provide someone with a reason or incentive to act. |
| Encourage | To give support, confidence, or hope to someone. |
Conclusion
Understanding the distinctions between compel and impel enhances communication clarity. While both words involve action, compel implies force, and impel suggests an inner motivation. Utilizing these terms correctly can refine your expression in writing and speech.
