01
erzwungen
forced
Not voluntary, but brought about through pressure, coercion, or violence.
example
Ein erzwungenes Geständnis hat vor Gericht keine Gültigkeit.
A forced confession has no validity in court.
erzwungen
forced
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
'Erzwungen' (forced) is the past participle of the verb 'erzwingen' (to force). It is used as an adjective to describe something that came about through coercion.
EXAMPLE
Die Mannschaft schaffte in letzter Minute den erzwungenen Ausgleich.
The team managed to score the forced equalizer in the last minute.
Typical collocations
In this meaning, the adjective often describes actions or situations that do not happen voluntarily. Typical combinations are: 'eine erzwungene Pause' (a forced break), 'ein erzwungener Rücktritt' (a forced resignation), or 'eine erzwungene Entscheidung' (a forced decision).
EXAMPLE
Wegen des Motorschadens musste das Flugzeug eine erzwungene Landung machen.
Because of the engine damage, the plane had to make a forced landing.
Typical collocations
When it comes to behavior, 'erzwungen' (forced) describes an unnatural or insincere manner. Common collocations are: 'ein erzwungenes Lächeln' (a forced smile), 'erzwungene Freundlichkeit' (forced friendliness), or 'erzwungene Ruhe' (forced calm).
EXAMPLE
Man sah an seiner erzwungenen Höflichkeit, dass er sich unwohl fühlte.
You could tell from his forced politeness that he felt uncomfortable.
Compare with
erzwungen vs natürlich
natural / of course
'natürlich' and 'erzwungen' are opposites when it comes to behavior, conversations, or feelings. 'natürlich' feels relaxed, genuine, and spontaneous. 'erzwungen' feels strained or artificial, as if someone has to do or show something. A natural conversation flows easily on its own. A forced conversation feels effortful. 'erzwungen' can also mean that something happens because of pressure, but in this comparison the focus is mainly on the unnatural impression.
erzwungen
Nach dem Streit klang ihre Entschuldigung sehr erzwungen.
After the argument, her apology sounded very forced.
natürlich
Das Gespräch im Team war natürlich und alle konnten offen sprechen.
The conversation in the team was natural, and everyone could speak openly.
In real life
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