enforce the rule

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "enforce the rule" is grammatically correct and is commonly used in written English.
It means to ensure that a rule is followed or to make sure that a rule is obeyed. Example: The principal has delegated the responsibility to enforce the rule of wearing school uniforms to the teachers.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's left any meaningful student protection and enforcement to state attorneys general, who are suing DeVos over failure to enforce the rule.

Forbes

"It was time to enforce the rule".

The New York Times

Police officers will enforce the rule.

The New York Times

Policemen enforce the rule with fines.

The New York Times

The state's Agriculture Department would help enforce the rule.

The New York Times

But Pollak rarely has to enforce the rule.

The Washington Post

No cop appeared at the edge of the road to enforce the rule.

The New Yorker

Flight attendants' efforts to enforce the rule can cause tensions with passengers.

The New York Times

There is strictly no touching, with six female security staff on hand to enforce the rule.

The Guardian

Valentine indicated he would protest every time umpires tried to enforce the rule on Komiyama.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

TEPCO plans to strictly re-enforce the rule of evacuating the site whenever the dosimeter's alarm goes off.

University of Chicago

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "enforce the rule", clearly specify which rule you are referring to in the context to avoid ambiguity. This ensures your audience understands exactly what is being upheld.

Common error

Avoid using "enforce the rule" without explicitly stating or clearly implying the specific rule. Otherwise, the statement lacks clarity and practical significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "enforce the rule" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It describes the action of ensuring that a specific regulation or guideline is followed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

18%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Science

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "enforce the rule" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of ensuring compliance with a specific regulation or guideline. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, including news, business, and academic settings. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse audiences. To avoid ambiguity, it's important to clearly specify the rule being enforced. Alternative phrases like "implement the rule" or "uphold the regulation" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember that clarity in specifying which "rule" is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Ensure compliance with the rule

Focuses on the outcome of making sure people obey the rule.

Implement the rule

Focuses on the act of putting the rule into action.

Uphold the regulation

Highlights the act of maintaining and defending the rule.

Apply the provision

Emphasizes the specific act of putting a particular part of a law or agreement into effect.

Implement the policy

Focuses on the act of putting the policy into action.

Administer the law

Stresses the managerial aspect of ensuring the law is followed.

Execute the regulation

Highlights the formal and official act of carrying out the rule.

Mandate adherence to the regulation

Highlights the requirement to follow the regulation strictly.

See that the rule is observed

Emphasizes the act of overseeing and making sure the rule is followed.

Carry out the mandate

Stresses the execution of an official order or command.

FAQs

How can I use "enforce the rule" in a sentence?

You can use "enforce the rule" to describe the act of making sure a specific regulation or guideline is followed. For example, "The teacher's responsibility is to "enforce the rule" about no talking during tests".

What are some alternatives to "enforce the rule"?

Alternatives include "implement the rule", "uphold the regulation", or "ensure compliance with the rule". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "enforce the rule" or "apply the rule"?

"Enforce the rule" implies making sure the rule is obeyed, often with authority. "Apply the rule" simply means putting the rule into effect. "Enforce the rule" suggests a more active role in ensuring compliance compared to "apply the rule".

What does it mean to "enforce the rule of law"?

To "enforce the rule of law" means to ensure that laws are applied fairly and consistently to all citizens, and that no one is above the law. This is a fundamental principle of a just and democratic society.