Meaning
Extortion is a noun that refers to the act of obtaining money, property, or favors from someone through force, threats, or abuse of authority. It usually involves coercion rather than voluntary agreement.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: Noun
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Used to describe a crime or unlawful act.
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Typical structures:
- extortion of something from someone
- be accused of extortion
- fall victim to extortion
Common Phrases
- extortion money – money taken by threat.
- victim of extortion – someone targeted by the crime.
- accused of extortion – person charged with the crime.
- attempted extortion – when someone tries but fails to extort.
Collocations
- commit extortion
- practice extortion
- be guilty of extortion
- extortion scheme
- extortion attempt
- extortion charges
Examples
- The businessman was arrested for extortion after demanding money from shop owners.
- She fell victim to extortion when someone threatened to reveal private photos unless she paid.
- The police uncovered an extortion ring operating in the city.
- He faced extortion charges after blackmailing his colleague.
- The gang collected monthly extortion money from local vendors.
- Attempted extortion can also lead to serious legal punishment.
- The company refused to give in to the hacker’s extortion demands.
- Political figures can sometimes face false accusations of extortion.
Synonyms or Related
- blackmail
- coercion
- intimidation
- shakedown
Antonym
- generosity
- offering
- donation