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Shanghai

usgb/ˌʃæŋˈhaɪ/Volume
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Negative Connotation

Implies an unethical or illegal way of forcing someone, carries a negative tone.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
He felt shanghaied into signing the unfair contract.
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Historical Origin

Originally referred to abducting sailors to crew ships bound for Shanghai in the 19th century.

Illustration for Historical Origin
Sailors at the port feared being shanghaied and forced into a treacherous voyage.
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Colloquial Usage

Used informally, often in spoken English or casual writing, not in formal situations.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
I was basically shanghaied into organizing the entire event by myself.
Visual representation of the word "Shanghai"

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