at gunpoint
The phrase "at gunpoint" describes situations involving coercion or threats with a firearm, often indicating immediate danger and duress.
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Definition
B2General
(common, informal)Being threatened or forced to act because someone is pointing a gun.
Example
- The bank manager was forced to open the safe at gunpoint.
- They were held at gunpoint during the robbery.
C1Extended
(figurative)Being coerced or forced to do something under severe threat or pressure.
Example
- She felt as if she was making the decision at gunpoint, with no real choice.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "at gunpoint":
under the gunhold hostagegun forgun downpistols at dawnunder fire