Translation guide
The English verb 'compel' means to force or strongly persuade someone to do something. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on whether the compulsion is physical, social, psychological, or legal, and how direct or indirect the force is.
Expressing that someone is made to do something against their will, often through authority, power, or unavoidable circumstances.
The causative-passive form (させられる) expresses being made to do something, often reluctantly. It is the most natural way to say 'was compelled to do' in many contexts.
He was compelled to work overtime by his boss.
I was compelled to eat food I dislike.
A verb meaning to force or compel someone to do something. Often used in the pattern 〜に〜を強いる. It carries a strong sense of imposition.
He compelled me to apologize.
A suru-verb meaning to compel or enforce, often used in legal or official contexts. It implies using authority to make someone do something.
The law compels it.
Describing a situation, feeling, or duty that leaves no choice but to act in a certain way.
A formal pattern meaning 'cannot help but do' or 'have no choice but to do'. It expresses being compelled by circumstances.
I was compelled to get angry at his attitude.
I am compelled to admit the facts.
A pattern meaning 'cannot avoid doing' or 'must do', often due to social obligation or duty. It conveys a sense of being compelled by external expectations.
A formal expression meaning 'to be compelled' or 'to be forced' by circumstances. Often used in news or official statements.
He was compelled to resign.
Describing something that forces a particular feeling or response from others.
Used to mean 'compel' or 'invite' a reaction like laughter, tears, or sympathy. It suggests the subject naturally evokes that response.
His story compelled laughter.
A pattern meaning 'to make someone do something involuntarily'. It conveys that the action is compelled by a strong impression.
The scenery compels you to hold your breath.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'compel'. Using 強制する in casual speech can sound overly harsh or legalistic. The causative-passive is often the most natural choice for personal experiences.
The causative (させる) means 'make/let someone do', while the causative-passive (させられる) means 'be made to do'. For 'compel', the passive nuance of being forced is usually more appropriate.
My mother made me eat vegetables. (causative)
I was compelled to eat vegetables by my mother. (causative-passive)
Since it's my boss's invitation, I'm compelled to go.