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Definitions

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.

Social media companies argue that blanket bans will be ineffective, difficult to enforce and could isolate vulnerable teenagers.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Police said in a statement on the latest arrests that they had a duty to enforce the law "as it currently stands, not as it might be in the future".

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

Among other acts of extortion, this was an important weapon that he was using to enforce the blockade against Cuba.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

The second line was that banning A.I. would just enforce our actual policies, because A.I. already tends to break rules.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

And some enforce their patents aggressively: Myriad Genetics, which holds the patents on the BRCAi and BRCA2 genes responsible for most cases of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, charges $3,000 to test for the genes.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot