Translation guide
To force or urge someone to do something, often by internal motivation or external pressure.
Expressing that someone is made to do something, often against their will or by strong necessity.
Use the causative form of a verb to indicate making or letting someone do something. Context determines whether it's forcing or allowing.
彼は私に謝らせた。
He impelled me to apologize.
A formal pattern meaning 'have no choice but to do', expressing being impelled by circumstances.
状況が彼に決断を迫らざるを得なかった。
The situation impelled him to make a decision.
To force or compel someone to do something, often with a nuance of imposing an obligation.
To spur or drive someone to action, often by an inner urge or external pressure.
Expressing a strong internal push or motivation to do something.
強いる implies forcing someone against their will, while 促す is more about urging or prompting, often with a softer touch. Use 強いる for compulsion and 促す for encouragement.
上司が残業を強いた。
The boss impelled (forced) overtime.
先生が質問を促した。
The teacher impelled (urged) questions.
He impelled me to work overtime.
好奇心が彼を冒険に駆り立てた。
Curiosity impelled him to adventure.
To urge or prompt someone to take action, often gently or by suggestion.
彼の言葉が私に行動を促した。
His words impelled me to act.
To drive or spur someone, often by a strong emotion or desire.
情熱が彼を成功に駆り立てた。
Passion impelled him to success.
A pattern meaning 'cannot help but do', expressing an irresistible urge.
彼の話を聞いて、笑わずにはいられなかった。
Hearing his story, I was impelled to laugh.