Enforce
/ɪnˈfɔːrs/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo make sure that a rule or law is obeyed.
/ɪnˈfɔːrs/
To compel observance of or compliance with (a law, rule, or obligation).
The government has a duty to enforce the laws.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're the boss of a playground and you make sure everyone follows the rules, like no running in the sand. You're enforcing the rules!
👶 For kids: To make people do what they're supposed to.
More Examples
The school enforces a strict dress code.
They are determined to enforce their new copyright laws.
How It's Used
"The police enforce traffic laws."
"The company enforced a new policy on remote work."
To put a law or rule into effect and make sure people follow it.
/ɪnˈfɔːrs/
To compel or secure obedience to (a law, rule, or obligation).
The judge had to enforce the court order.
💡 Simply: Imagine you are the referee in a game, you're the one who has to enforce the rules of the game by penalizing players that break the rules
👶 For kids: To make sure someone does what they're supposed to do.
More Examples
The company will enforce the new rules.
It is necessary to enforce workplace safety standards.
How It's Used
"The judge enforced the settlement agreement."
"The court enforced the terms of the contract."
To make someone do something they might not want to do.
/ɪnˈfɔːrs/
To compel or persuade (someone) to do something.
The manager enforced their opinions onto the employees.
💡 Simply: Imagine a coach enforcing their strategy on the team and the players have to do it. You're making the team follow a certain plan.
👶 For kids: To make someone do something.
More Examples
The leader enforced their vision of a more efficient society.
He tried to enforce his view on the team.
How It's Used
"She enforced her ideas on the team."
Idioms & expressions
enforce a policy
To make a rule or set of rules active and ensure that people follow them.
"The company enforces a strict no-smoking policy."
enforce the law
To ensure that laws are obeyed.
"The police are responsible for enforcing the law."
enforce discipline
To maintain order by ensuring rules are followed.
"The teacher had to enforce discipline in the classroom."
From Middle English *enforcen*, from Old French *enforcier* ('to strengthen, compel'), from *en-* ('in, into') + *forcier* ('to force').
Used since the 14th century, originally meaning 'to strengthen' or 'to compel by force'.
Memory tip
Think of a forceful cop who makes sure the laws are followed.