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.

Central Command said there are more than 17 warships and 100 aircraft in the region to enforce the blockade.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

In one potential off-ramp, Vatanka said that the United States could maintain the blockade but not enforce it rigorously.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

In the interim, the state and local governments must act decisively to enforce the existing wage floor, ensuring employers cannot use expanded housing deductions to push workers’ pay below the legal minimum.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

Regardless, a terror group refusing to identify its leader clearly complicates its ability to project power, enforce doctrine, and generate propaganda.

From Slate • Apr. 21, 2026

And they have the laws and the means to enforce their views....I am sure that their attitude is indefensible, but I do not wish to jeopardize my liberty in proving that it is.

From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield

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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