Synonyms for
Shanghai
Definition
to force someone to do something or go somewhere, often by using dishonest or unfair methods
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Antonyms
Common collocations
- shanghai a sailor
- shanghai into service
- shanghai into a deal
- shanghai into a marriage
- shanghai into a contract
- shanghai into a cult
Word family
verb shanghai
Usage note
The verb 'shanghai' specifically refers to tricking or coercing someone into doing something, often against their will, particularly into forced labor or military service. It is less commonly used for general kidnapping.
Example sentences
- The evil witch tried to shanghai Hansel and Gretel to make them her slaves.
- The con artist tried to shanghai the old lady by tricking her into giving him her life savings.
- The pirates would often shanghai sailors to work on their ships.
- The corrupt politician tried to shanghai the election by cheating and lying.
- The kidnappers shanghaied the wealthy businessman and demanded a ransom.
Quotes
I was shanghaied by the sea monster and forced to work on his ship for years. - Percy Jackson
The kidnappers tried to shanghai the wealthy businessman, but they didn't know he was a former Navy SEAL. - Anonymous
The con artist shanghaied me into giving him all my money, but I reported him to the police and got it back. - Jane Doe