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Extortion

UK //ɪkˈstɔːʃən// US //ɪkˈstɔrʃən// Pronunciation

Definition

The practice of obtaining something, especially money, through threats or force.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Getting money or something valuable through threats.

Examples

• The criminal was sentenced for extortion and threatening his victims.
• Extortion is a serious crime that can carry heavy penalties.
• The police arrested him for extortion after he demanded money under threat.
• She reported the extortion attempt to the authorities immediately.
• Extortion can involve threats of physical harm or exposure of secrets.

Usage notes

Used in legal contexts or serious discussions. Avoid informal settings. Common in crime-related discussions.

Grammar pattern

noun

Memory hint

Think 'extort' sounds like 'extreme sport' - getting something by threatening danger.

Collocations

• commit extortion
• guilty of extortion
• accusations of extortion
• victim of extortion
• charges of extortion

Synonyms

• blackmail
• coercion
• exaction
• shakedown
• robbery

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'extraction' - means to remove something.
• Incorrectly used as a verb. 'Extortion' is a noun.
• Overgeneralizing. Not all threats constitute extortion.