Enforcement: meaning, definitions and examples

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enforcement

 

[ ɪnˈfɔːsmənt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

law enforcement

The act of enforcing laws, regulations, rules, or agreements. It involves ensuring compliance with established guidelines and punishing violations. Law enforcement agencies are responsible for maintaining public order and safety.

Synonyms

execution, implementation, upholding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
enforcement

Use 'enforcement' when referring to the act of compelling obedience to laws, rules, or regulations. It often involves authorities or law enforcement agencies.

  • The police are responsible for the enforcement of traffic laws.
  • Strict enforcement of the new regulations will begin next month.
implementation

Use 'implementation' when referring to the process of putting a decision, plan, agreement, or policy into effect. It often involves steps or procedures.

  • The implementation of the new software took several months.
  • Effective implementation of strategies is crucial for achieving goals.
execution

Use 'execution' when referring to carrying out or putting into effect a plan, order, law, or service. It can also have a negative meaning, referring to the act of putting someone to death as a legal penalty.

  • The execution of the project was flawless and completed on time.
  • The execution of the criminal was scheduled for next week. (negative)
upholding

Use 'upholding' when referring to maintaining or supporting a decision, rule, law, or tradition. It often implies a sense of duty or moral commitment.

  • The court is responsible for upholding justice and the rule of law.
  • He was known for upholding the traditions of the community.

Examples of usage

  • The enforcement of traffic laws is crucial for road safety.
  • The enforcement of environmental regulations helps protect the planet.
Context #2 | Noun

enforcement of a contract

The process of making sure that parties fulfill the terms and conditions of a contract. It includes resolving disputes, enforcing penalties for breaches, and ensuring that all parties meet their obligations.

Synonyms

fulfillment, implementation, observance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
enforcement

Used when describing the act of making sure laws or rules are followed.

  • The enforcement of traffic laws has reduced accidents.
  • The police are responsible for the enforcement of the law.
implementation

Used to describe the process of putting a plan, decision, or agreement into effect.

  • The implementation of the new system will start next month.
  • We need to create an implementation plan for the project.
fulfillment

Best used when talking about achieving a goal or completing a task to satisfaction, often with an emotional or personal satisfaction component.

  • She found fulfillment in her new job.
  • The fulfillment of the order took two days.
observance

Pertains to the practice of following customs, rules, or laws, often with a focus on ritual or tradition.

  • The observance of religious holidays is important to the community.
  • Strict observance of safety protocols is required.

Examples of usage

  • The enforcement of the agreement was necessary to protect the interests of both parties.
  • Legal action may be taken for the enforcement of the contract if one party fails to uphold their end of the deal.

Translations

Translations of the word "enforcement" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aplicação

🇮🇳 प्रवर्तन

🇩🇪 Durchsetzung

🇮🇩 penegakan

🇺🇦 забезпечення

🇵🇱 egzekwowanie

🇯🇵 施行 (しこう)

🇫🇷 application

🇪🇸 aplicación

🇹🇷 uygulama

🇰🇷 집행 (집행)

🇸🇦 تنفيذ

🇨🇿 prosazování

🇸🇰 vymáhanie

🇨🇳 执行 (zhíxíng)

🇸🇮 izvajanje

🇮🇸 framfylgd

🇰🇿 қамтамасыз ету

🇬🇪 მოხდენა

🇦🇿 icra

🇲🇽 aplicación

Etymology

The word 'enforcement' originated from the Middle English term 'enforcen,' which meant to strengthen or fortify. Over time, it evolved to encompass the idea of ensuring compliance and upholding rules. The concept of enforcement has been integral to governance and the maintenance of order in societies throughout history.

See also: enforceability, enforceable, enforcer.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,403, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.