forceful

[fawrs-fuhl, fohrs-] / ˈfɔrs fəl, ˈfoʊrs- /

ADJECTIVE

effective, powerful

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cogent commanding compelling convincing dynamic energetic forcible persuasive strong vehement vigorous violent

WEAK

ball of fire big-wheel bullish coming on strong constraining dominant electric elemental gutsy mighty pithy potent powerhouse puissant punch punchy steamroller stringent take-charge takeover telling titanic virile weighty

Antonyms

STRONGEST

apathetic idle impotent inactive ineffective lethargic mild moderate passive weak

WEAK

feeble meek unforceful

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Brookings senior fellow David Wessel expects that Powell's forceful response to the president will cement his legacy as "a Fed chair with a spine."

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

Sue Chrysanthou SC, acting for MacInnes, was forceful on her cross-examination of Wilson with a tense atmosphere filling the room as she opened her questioning.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

Justice Elena Kagan wrote a forceful memorandum outlining why using the shadow docket was a bad idea.

From Salon • Apr. 22, 2026

On Monday, Mexico’s Foreign Ministry deployed unusually forceful language in condemning detention centers as “incompatible with human rights standards and the protection of human life.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

If Cecilia went in now she would have to mediate between her mother’s vague instructions and Betty’s forceful state of mind.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

Vocabulary lists containing forceful

Stay Strong: Forc and Fort

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ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 5

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Vigorous Vocab: Synonyms for "Strong"

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