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noun Common

forcing

FAW-sihng

Forcing (noun) means the act of making something happen, often against natural resistance. Example: “The forcing of the lock left visible scratch marks.”

noun
1
The act of making something happen, often against natural resistance.
"The forcing of the lock left visible scratch marks."
2
A gardening technique for making plants grow or flower earlier than they naturally would.
"Forcing bulbs indoors lets you enjoy flowers in midwinter."

How to Use Forcing

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMaking something happen before its natural time, or through pressure rather than naturally.

Common pairings
forcing technique bulb forcing

Word Forms

forcings plural

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Test yourself on “forcing” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ of the lock left visible scratch marks.

Etymology

From force + -ing.

Related Words

Rhymes for forcing

See all rhymes for forcing →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “forcing” mean?

The word “forcing” means the act of making something happen, often against natural resistance. In plain terms, making something happen before its natural time, or through pressure rather than naturally.

How do you pronounce “forcing”?

“Forcing” is pronounced FAW-sihng (/ˈfɔɹ.sɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “forcing” in a sentence?

Here is “forcing” used in a sentence: “The forcing of the lock left visible scratch marks.”

What part of speech is “forcing”?

“Forcing” is a noun.

Is “forcing” a common word?

“Forcing” is a fairly common word in modern English.

How many meanings does “forcing” have?

“Forcing” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of making something happen, often against natural resistance.

What is the difference between "forcing" something and "encouraging" something?

Forcing means making something happen against natural resistance, implying pressure or compulsion. Encouraging is gentler, prompting or supporting something without compulsion. A forced outcome happens whether or not it is welcome.

What is forced rhubarb?

Forced rhubarb is rhubarb grown using the forcing technique, in warmth and darkness, so it produces tender pink stalks earlier in the year. It is a well-known example of forcing in horticulture.

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