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.

Marvin, which ruled that unmarried partners could sue each other to enforce alleged promises or agreements made during their nonmarital relationship.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 16, 2026

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

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

In 1765, when Britain tried to enforce onerous fees on newspaper ads, “Sons of Liberty” groups rose up to oppose it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 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

“They rely on witch and wizard parents to enforce their offspring’s obedience while within their walls.”

From "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" by J.K. Rowling

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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