extorsión
“extorsión” means “extortion” in Spanish (obtaining something through force or threats).
extortion
Also: blackmail, shakedown
📝 In Action
El empresario denunció una extorsión por parte de la mafia.
B2The businessman reported extortion by the mafia.
Las autoridades están investigando casos de extorsión telefónica.
B2Authorities are investigating cases of phone extortion.
Cedió a la extorsión porque temía por la seguridad de su familia.
C1He gave in to the extortion because he feared for his family's safety.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: extorsión
Question 1 of 3
Which article should you use with 'extorsión'?
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'extorsio', which comes from 'extorquere', meaning 'to twist out' or 'to wrench away'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'extorsión' the same as 'chantaje'?
Not exactly. While they are similar, 'extorsión' usually involves threats of violence or force, while 'chantaje' is more about threatening to reveal a secret (blackmail).
Can 'extorsión' be used for non-monetary things?
Yes, it refers to forcing someone to do anything against their will through intimidation, not just paying money.
How do you say 'to extort' as a verb?
The verb is 'extorsionar'.