Definition

Noun: 1. The act of compelling observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation: The process or action of ensuring that laws or rules are obeyed. 2. The act of imposing something, such as an idea or course of action, with authority: The act of causing something to happen or be applied.

Examples

• The enforcement of the new traffic laws began on Monday.
• Effective enforcement of company policies is the manager's responsibility.
• The treaty lacks a mechanism for enforcement.
• The police are responsible for law enforcement.

Advanced Usage

• "Strict enforcement": The rigorous application of rules without leniency.
  • The city announced strict enforcement of the parking regulations.
• "Selective enforcement": The practice of applying laws or rules only in certain cases, often perceived as unfair.
  • The community accused the officials of selective enforcement of the ordinances.

Variants and Related Words

• Enforce (verb): To compel observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation.
  • The agency was created to enforce environmental regulations.
• Enforcer (noun): A person or group that compels others to obey rules or laws.
  • He was seen as the team's enforcer on the ice.
• Enforceable (adjective): Capable of being enforced.
  • The contract must be clear to be legally enforceable.

Synonyms

• Implementation: The process of putting a decision or plan into effect.
• Imposition: The action of imposing something, such as a rule or tax.
• Administration: The process of managing the implementation of policies or laws.

Related Phrases

• Law enforcement: The activity of ensuring obedience to the laws, typically referring to police and related agencies.
  • He had a long career in law enforcement.
• Enforcement action: A specific measure taken to compel compliance.
  • The council authorized enforcement action against the property owner.

Noun

1. the act of enforcing; ensuring observance of or obedience to