enforce

[en-fawrs, -fohrs] / ɛnˈfɔrs, -ˈfoʊrs /

VERB

put a rule, plan in force

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accomplish administer apply carry out implement impose invoke prosecute reinforce require sanction

STRONG

administrate coerce commandeer compel constrain demand dictate discharge dragoon drive effect emphasize exact execute exert expect extort fortify fulfill goad hound impel incite lash make necessitate oblige perform press spur strain stress strong-arm support urge whip wrest

WEAK

crack down egg on force upon insist on lean on put into effect put screws to

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cease halt not finish refuse stop

STRONG

check delay deter disapprove discourage dissuade fail forget give ignore leave alone let go lose miss neglect prevent release repress

WEAK

abandon disregard drop forego give up overlook

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A new curriculum designed to enforce textbook-based learning is due in 2028.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Watch the video above to see how the military vessels and aircraft in the region could be used to help enforce the blockade.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

But a blockade could be tough to enforce, wrote Helima Croft, an analyst with RBC Capital Markets analyst, in a note on Sunday.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

The president wanted all three: to enforce the free navigation of the sea, quickly, without deploying boots on the ground.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

That country has so many political and economic problems that it is almost impossible for the officials to enforce any of the wildlife laws and regulations.

From "My Life with the Chimpanzees" by Jane Goodall

Vocabulary lists containing enforce

Stay Strong: Forc and Fort

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13th Amendment (1865)

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19th Amendment (1920)

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