威圧

• Reading: いあつ
• Romaji: iatsu
• Kanji breakdown: 威 (i) — authority, dignity; 圧 (atsu) — pressure, press
• Pronunciation: /i.a.tsɯ/

Meaning

Coercion; intimidation; pressure. Using authority or force to suppress or dominate others.

A noun and suru-verb (威圧する). Describes deliberately using one's power, size, or status to intimidate or overpower someone. Common in legal, political, and interpersonal contexts. 威圧的な態度 (intimidating attitude) is a frequent compound. Distinguished from 圧迫 by its emphasis on the wielding of authority (威) rather than sheer physical pressure.

Examples

1. 上司の威圧的な態度に、部下たちは委縮してしまった。 The boss's intimidating attitude left the subordinates feeling cowed.
2. 被疑者を威圧して自白させた疑いで警察官が調査された。 A police officer was investigated on suspicion of coercing a confession from a suspect.
3. 国際社会の威圧にも屈せず、政府は独自の立場を貫いた。 Undaunted by international pressure, the government maintained its independent stance.

Usage Guide

Context: law, workplace, politics, interpersonal

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Sino-Japanese compound: 威 (i) means authority, power, or dignity, 圧 (atsu) means press or pressure. Together: 'pressure of authority.'

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adult

Social background: Universal