
Force somebody’s hand
Reluctant Action
Used when a person is forced to take an action they wouldn't normally choose.

I didn’t want to move, but the rising rent forced my hand.
Urgency or Crisis
Often implies a situation of urgency or a crisis that demands immediate action.

The company's bankruptcy forced the CEO’s hand to lay off employees.
Not Aggressive
Doesn’t necessarily involve aggression. External circumstances are usually responsible.

The new regulations forced her hand to upgrade her equipment.
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