in force

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Explanation of "in force"

Definition:
The phrase "in force" means that something, usually a law, rule, or agreement, is currently active and must be followed. When something is "in force," it is effective and has power or influence.

Usage Instructions:

• "In force" is often used in legal contexts, but it can also apply to rules, agreements, or policies.
• You can use it to describe when a law or rule is officially active and must be obeyed.

Examples:

1. Legal Context: "The new traffic laws are now in force, so all drivers must follow them."
2. Policy Context: "The company's new work-from-home policy is in force starting next week."

Advanced Usage:

• In legal documents, you might see phrases like "the regulations are in force" or "the agreement is in force," which means they are legally binding and must be adhered to.

Word Variants:

1. In effect: This is a similar phrase that means the same thing as "in force." You can use them interchangeably.

   • Example: "The new law is now in effect."

2. Force (noun): The power or strength that can cause changes or movement.

   • Example: "The force of the wind knocked down the tree."

Different Meanings:

• In force can specifically refer to laws or agreements, but it can also imply being strong or effective in other contexts, such as "in force" in a campaign or effort.

Synonyms:

• Effective
• Active
• Operational
• Enforceable

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Put into force: This means to start or implement a law or rule.

  • Example: "The government will put the new regulations into force next month."

• Come into force: This means that a law or rule starts being effective.

  • Example: "The new safety standards will come into force on January 1st."

Recap:

• "In force" indicates that a law, rule, or agreement is currently active and must be followed.
• It's often used in legal and formal contexts, and similar phrases like "in effect" can be used interchangeably.

Academic

Adjective

1. exerting force or influence
   • the law is effective immediately
   • a warranty good for two years
   • the law is already in effect (or in force)

Synonyms

• effective
• good
• in effect
• in force