enforcement
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the act of making sure people follow a law or rule.
the act of compelling observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation.
Simple“The city promised stricter enforcement of the speed limits near schools.”
In context“Effective environmental protection requires not only robust legislation but also the consistent enforcement of existing industrial regulations.”
UsageOften used in the compound 'law enforcement' to refer to the police and similar agencies.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
using force or pressure to make something happen.
the use of force or authority to give effect to a particular demand or constraint.
Simple“The enforcement of the new office dress code caused a lot of stress.”
In context“The rigid enforcement of these traditional social hierarchies often stifles innovation within the corporate structure.”
UsageUsually uncountable in this sense.
Synonyms
Usage enforcement agencies · enforcement officials · enforcement officers
“They described a harrowing string of events, including a lack of urgency by law enforcement and what they called “inconsistencies” in narratives and information provided by some of Wells’ friends.”
“Warning that countries facilitating transshipments are being “put on notice”, the White House said border authorities have employed artificial intelligence to integrate shipment data and other information as part of strengthened enforcement efforts.”
From Old French enforcement, see enforce + -ment.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.