press gang

• Historicamente, grupo de pessoas contratadas para recrutar à força homens para o serviço militar ou naval. No uso moderno, pode se referir a qualquer grupo que coage ou pressiona alguém a fazer algo contra a sua vontade.

Historically, a group of men employed to forcibly recruit people, especially men, into military or naval service. In modern usage, it can refer to any group that coerces or pressures someone into doing something against their will.

1. Historical forced recruitmentC1formalbritish

   A group of men employed to forcibly recruit people, especially men, into military or naval service.

   Imprensa forçada

   • The press gang roamed the streets looking for able-bodied men.
   • Many sailors were taken by the press gang against their will.
   • The practice of the press gang was common in the 18th century.

2. Coercive recruitmentC1informal

   Any group or method that forces people to join an organization or activity against their will.

   Recrutamento forçado

   • The company used a press gang tactic to fill its volunteer positions.
   • He felt like he was part of a press gang when they pressured him to join the committee.
   • The political party was accused of operating a press gang to get supporters.