Forceren

Forceren is a Dutch verb meaning to apply force to overcome resistance, and also to compel or pressure someone to do something. The term is used in both literal and figurative contexts. In physical sense, it describes overcoming an obstacle, as in forcing a door open. In figurative use, it refers to pressuring someone to act, or to pushing a decision or process through despite opposition.

Etymology and variations: forceren is a loanword derived from the French verb forcer, meaning “to force,” and has been integrated into Dutch with the common -eren verb pattern. The word forms regularly in tense and mood, for example: ik forceer, hij forceert, wij forceren; ge- prefix with the past participle geforceerd.

Usage notes: In everyday language, forceren can carry connotations of coercion or brusque action. For physical cases, one speaks of “de deur forceren” or “de deur geforceerd openen.” In social or political contexts, phrases like “iemand tot iets forceren” or “een besluit forceren” imply pushing someone or a process beyond voluntary consensus. In more formal writing, prefer dwingen or doordrukken when referring to forcing someone to comply or pushing through a decision; forceren can sound informal or colloquial in some registers.

Examples:

- Hij forceerde de deur open om naar binnen te gaan.

- De leverancier probeerde betaling te forceren door juridische stappen te zetten.

- Het kabinet forcerde een doorbraak in de onderhandelingen.

See also: dwingen, doordrukken, druk uitoefenen.