Legal Definitions - physical force

Physical force refers to the direct application of power, energy, or strength to a person or object. This involves actual bodily contact or the use of an implement to create such contact, resulting in an impact, movement, or restraint. It is distinct from threats or verbal coercion, focusing instead on tangible actions that affect the physical state or location of something or someone.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of physical force:

• Example 1: During a heated argument, one individual forcefully shoves another person backward, causing them to lose their balance and fall. The person who fell later reports the incident to the authorities.

  Explanation: The act of shoving involves the direct application of bodily strength to another person, causing a physical impact and movement. This direct, tangible action clearly demonstrates the use of physical force.

• Example 2: A security guard, attempting to prevent a shoplifter from leaving a store, firmly grasps the shoplifter's arm to stop them. The shoplifter then struggles to break free from the guard's hold.

  Explanation: The security guard's action of grasping the shoplifter's arm is a direct application of physical strength to restrain another person. This direct contact and exertion of power to control movement constitutes physical force.

• Example 3: A construction worker uses a sledgehammer to demolish a concrete wall. Each swing of the sledgehammer impacts the wall with significant power, gradually breaking it apart.

  Explanation: The worker's action of swinging the sledgehammer and making it strike the wall involves the direct application of mechanical energy and strength to an object. The impact and subsequent breaking of the wall are direct results of this physical force.