already in force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "already in force" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is already in effect or active. Example: The new law on gun control is already in force, meaning that all citizens must comply with its regulations.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Although these bilaterals have been formally ratified so far by only 15 countries, the Pentagon claims they are already "in force" in 41, and expects more ratifications to follow.The United States insists that it is not against international courts per se.

The Economist

But the 25%-inspection rule is already in force.

The Economist

But most of the EU powers articulated in the draft are already in force.

The Economist

This approach is already in force in countries such as the Netherlands.

The Economist

Technically, though I had entered it unwittingly, the agreement was already in force.

The New York Times

Other provisions of Mr. Clinton's order, which was issued in 1995, are already in force.

The New York Times

It is unclear why Still said it was already in force.

The Guardian

That provision, already in force, has resulted in one year in rebates of $1.1 billion $1.1 billionn— to policy holders.

University of California, Berkeley

And no wonder, since such verisimilitude was already in force, in Mughal realism, nearly 300 years earlier.

The New York Times - Arts

Where it suited them, the French acted as if majority voting were already in force, notes an EU diplomat.

The Economist

Anti-dumping measures already in force make America an unattractive market, a trend further reinforced by low prices.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "already in force", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific rule, law, or agreement is being referenced. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating the subject.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because a general principle is "already in force", all its specific applications are also automatically covered. Verify the specific details and applicability in each situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "already in force" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating that a particular rule, law, or agreement is currently active and operational. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and common usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "already in force" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression indicating that a rule, law, or agreement is currently active and operational. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and common usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia and Science contexts, the phrase serves to inform about the present validity and enforceability of something. It maintains a neutral to formal tone and is often used in official or legal contexts. Alternatives such as "currently in effect" or "presently in operation" can be used depending on the desired nuance. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the specific subject in question. By avoiding ambiguity, writers can make the most of this important phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

currently in effect

Replaces "force" with "effect", emphasizing the active state.

presently in operation

Uses "operation" instead of "force", suggesting functionality.

now in effect

Simple substitution of "already" with "now".

currently operative

A more formal synonym, replacing "in force" with the single word "operative".

in effect as of now

Adds specificity regarding the timing of the effect.

now valid

Replaces "in force" with "valid", indicating legal standing.

in place

A shorter, more general way to express that something is active.

up and running

Suggests a functional and active state, often used for systems or processes.

in action

Emphasizes the active implementation of something.

active

A single-word replacement focusing on the state of being active.

FAQs

How can I use "already in force" in a sentence?

Use "already in force" to indicate that a rule, law, or agreement is currently active and operational. For example: "The new regulations are "already in force", so compliance is mandatory."

What can I say instead of "already in force"?

You can use alternatives like "currently in effect", "presently in operation", or "now valid" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the law is already in force"?

Yes, it is correct. The phrase "already in force" accurately describes that a law is currently active and being implemented.

What's the difference between "already in force" and "coming into force"?

"Already in force" indicates something is currently active, while "coming into force" refers to something that will become active in the future. For example: "The new policy is "already in force", but further changes are "coming into force" next year."