force (someone or something) into (something)

force (someone or something) into (something)

1. To cause something to collapse or break inward using a great deal of force. I couldn't open the box properly, so I just used my thumbs to force the lid into it. Police had to force the door into the suspect's apartment.
2. To push, shove, or jam someone or something into a particular space or thing. That box is full of breakables, so don't just force it into the closet like that! I can't believe they forced us into that dirty jail cell, as if we were a couple of petty criminals!
3. To persuade or pressure someone or an animal to enter some space or thing. Don't force her into the elevator if she's scared I ultimately had to force the dog back into the house because we were running late.
4. To persuade, pressure, or compel someone or something to do something or enter into some arrangement or situation. A noun or pronoun is used between "force" and "into." No one forced him into signing that contract! She was forced into marriage at a very young age. The stock market crash has forced the country into another economic downturn.
See also: force
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • force in
  • force on
  • force on (someone or something)
  • hard power
  • be out in force
  • force down
  • haul into (some place)
  • jam in
  • by main force
  • force something down someone's throat