Step 1: Analyze the meaning of 'coercive'.
'Coercive' means something that is forceful, compelling, or done with force or authority.
Step 2: Analyze the options.
Gentle is the opposite of 'coercive' as it implies softness and kindness.
Forceful directly matches the meaning of 'coercive', as both imply the use of force or pressure.
Corrective implies the intent to correct, which is different from being forceful.
Merciful suggests kindness or leniency, which is the opposite of being coercive.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct synonym for 'coercive' is: \[ \boxed{{Forceful}}. \]
Which one of the following best improves the underlined portion?
However, wood sculptures are vulnerable to decay, insect damage and fire. As a result, they \(\underline{hang\ around\ for\ less\ often\ than\ sculptures\ made\ of\ more\ durable\ materials.}\)
Choose the correct meaning of the underlined phrase in the given context from the options given below. The manager had to \(\underline{pull\ strings\ to\ get\ invitation\ passes\ for \ the\ concert.}\)
Replace the underlined word in the following sentence with the correct word from the options given below. The government tried to \(\underline{illicit\ support\ for\ the\ bill\ but\ failed.}\)
Five friends A, B, C, D, and E are sitting in a row facing north, but not necessarily in the same order:
B is to the immediate left of C
E is not at any of the ends
D is to the right of E but not next to C
A is at one of the ends
Who is sitting in the middle?