extort - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
extort Word Meanings
- to obtain through force or threats
- to extract money or a promise from someone through coercion
- to wring out information by intimidation
extort Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
extort Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪkˈstɔːt/
US
/ɪkˈstɔrt/
extort Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'ex-' (out) + 'tortus' (twisted). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a person twisting someone's arm literally or figuratively to make them give up something valuable, hence the connection to coercion.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Extort means to obtain money, information, or another benefit by using threats, intimidation, or coercion. It differs from a simple demand or negotiation because the pressure comes from fear of harm, legal trouble, or reputational damage. People or groups who extort usually have power or leverage over the victim and may threaten violence, exposure of secrets, or ruinous consequences. In legal contexts, extortion is a crime, and phrases like 'to extort money' or 'to extort a confession' are common. The word can also appear with verbs like force, extract, or wring, but the connotation remains coercive and unlawful.
Usage Reminders
- • Extort is illegal; never imply consent.
- • Use with money or information (extort money, extort a confession).
- • Distinguish from coerce and from blackmail.
- • Usually involves a criminal act and a threat.
- • Occurs in legal or crime-report contexts; not in polite requests.
Common Misconceptions
- Extort and coerce are interchangeable in all contexts.
- Extort is only about money, never information.
- If someone demands something, that is extortion.
- Extortion requires physical violence in all cases.
- Legal extortion is simply a formal business negotiation.
Thinking Differences
In English, extort carries a strong criminal connotation and is used in formal or legal contexts. Learners often confuse it with merely pressuring or coercing, and may overstate the illegality in casual speech.
Learning Tips
- Practice collocations: extort money, extort a confession
- Differentiate from coerce and blackmail
- Notice formal/legal tone
- Recognize the negative connotation
- Use in crime-report or legal examples
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'extort' mean?
A.To praise someone for their achievements
B.To gently request help from someone
C.To forcibly obtain something from someone
D.To help someone improve their skills
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'extort' correctly?
A.The teacher extorted the students to study harder.
B.He extorted money from the businesses in the area.
C.She asked to extort a favor from her friend.
D.They extorted kindness from everyone in the community.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'extort'?
A.Coerce
B.Encourage
C.Support
D.Assist
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'extort'?
A.Take
B.Donate
C.Steal
D.Acquire
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might 'extort' something?
A.A charity asking for donations.
B.A criminal threatening a business owner for money.
C.A customer asking for a refund politely.
D.A friend helping their partner with a project.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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