binding force

USAGE SUMMARY

'binding force' is an acceptable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to the power or authority of a law, rule, or agreement that must be obeyed or followed. For example, "The laws of the contract are a binding force that both parties must follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As its name suggests, it is a guidance document, and does not have binding force.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was the orchestra, with agile harpsichord and cello continuo, that offered the essential binding force.

The Guardian

An insistence on dissonance was one binding force among the musicians.

The New York Times - Arts

But Mrs. Merkel's conservative bloc regards conscription as a socially binding force.

The New York Times

"So have our notions of loyalty, and the importance of sex and sexual life as a binding force".

The New York Times - Style

Ms. Chan said now that the covenant's binding force has been established, the city should enforce it.

The New York Times

Then the plasma expands until the particles reach a distance where the gluon's binding force kicks in again.

The New York Times

The bill would have had no binding force, and the president had vowed to ignore it.

The Economist

Quantum field theory did not seem applicable to the nuclear binding force.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The law, on the other hand, endures as a binding force precisely because it does not arouse the passions that are stoked by competing ideas of justice.

The New York Times

If you were also complicit in the purchasing decision of said mug, good taste is not the binding force between you and your partner, either.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts such as social cohesion or legal obligations, use "binding force" to emphasize the compelling or unifying nature of the element in question.

Common error

Avoid using "binding force" in casual conversation or informal writing. It's more appropriate for formal or technical discussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "binding force" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object within a sentence. It identifies a power, influence, or factor that compels or unites. Ludwig's examples showcase its role in various contexts, from legal agreements to social dynamics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "binding force" is a noun phrase commonly used to describe a power, influence, or factor that compels or unites. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is acceptable in written English and is frequently found in formal contexts like legal, scientific, and academic writing. While it is a very common expression, its formal register makes it less suitable for casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "unifying influence" or "cohesive power" for greater impact in specific contexts. Usage data from Ludwig indicates its frequent appearance in news, science, and encyclopedia sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Cohesive power

Highlights the ability to create unity and connection, focusing on the strength of the force to keep things together.

Unifying influence

Emphasizes the act of bringing elements together into a cohesive whole, shifting the focus from the force itself to its effect.

Connecting link

Stresses the role of joining two or more things together, differing by focusing specifically on the act of connection.

Cementing factor

Highlights the element that firmly establishes or secures a relationship or agreement, using the metaphor of cement.

Compelling factor

Stresses the element that drives or necessitates a particular action or outcome, moving away from physical forces towards influence.

Catalyzing agent

Focuses on the thing that speeds up or instigates a reaction or process, often used in chemistry or social change contexts.

Underlying mechanism

Shifts the focus to the fundamental process that makes something happen, often used in scientific or technical contexts.

Core principle

Highlights the fundamental belief or idea upon which something is based, differing by emphasizing the foundational nature of the concept.

Essential element

Highlights the crucial aspect or component that is indispensable for something to exist or function, differing by emphasizing necessity.

Integral component

Indicates a part that is necessary to complete the whole, differing by emphasizing its role as a part of a larger system.

FAQs

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

You can use "binding force" to describe something that unites or compels, as in "The treaty has a "legally binding force" on all signatory nations" or "Tradition served as a "socially binding force" within the community".

What are some synonyms for "binding force"?

Alternatives to "binding force" include "unifying influence", "cohesive power", and "compelling factor", depending on the context.

In what contexts is "binding force" most appropriate?

"Binding force" is best suited for formal contexts, such as legal, scientific, or academic writing. It may sound out of place in casual conversation.

What is the difference between "binding force" and "bonding force"?

"Binding force" often refers to a more abstract or obligatory power, while "bonding force" typically describes a physical or chemical attraction.