enforcing the law

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "enforcing the law" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to the act of carrying out justice and order by making certain that laws are followed and enforced. For example, "The police are tasked with enforcing the law to ensure all citizens are protected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're enforcing the law".

The New York Times

"It's enforcing the law.

The New York Times

Enforcing the law was "difficult," he said.

The New York Times

Enforcing the law is not mean-spirited.

The New York Times

Enforcing the law?

The Washington Post

We was enforcing the law.

The Guardian

We're just enforcing the law".

The New York Times

Now they're not enforcing the law".

The Guardian

"I'm not interested in enforcing the law.

The New York Times

They should start enforcing the law.

The New York Times

This is not about enforcing the law.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "enforcing the law", ensure the context clearly defines which law is being enforced to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "enforcing the law" when referring to ethical or moral codes. The phrase is specific to legal regulations, not general principles of conduct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "enforcing the law" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically correct and commonly used. It often serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the action of making sure legal regulations are observed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "enforcing the law" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as a gerund. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe the act of ensuring compliance with legal regulations. Its register is typically neutral, though it can also appear in professional contexts, particularly in news and media. The phrase is most commonly found in news reports, encyclopedia entries, and formal business communications. When using this phrase, clarity regarding which law is being enforced is crucial. Alternatives include phrases like "applying the law" and "implementing the law".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

applying the law

Focuses on the application aspect rather than the overall enforcement process.

implementing the law

Highlights the practical execution and putting the law into effect.

upholding the law

Emphasizes the act of maintaining and supporting the law's authority.

executing the law

Conveys a more formal and official tone related to carrying out legal mandates.

administering the law

Focuses on the managerial and organizational aspects of legal enforcement.

ensuring compliance with the law

Shifts the focus to achieving adherence to legal requirements.

maintaining law and order

Broadens the scope to include the overall preservation of societal order through legal means.

prosecuting offenders

Highlights the action of bringing lawbreakers to justice.

policing activity

Focuses on the specific actions of law enforcement agencies.

legal enforcement

A more general term emphasizing the enforcement aspect of the legal system.

FAQs

How can I use "enforcing the law" in a sentence?

You can use "enforcing the law" to describe the actions taken to ensure laws are followed, such as, "The police are responsible for "enforcing the law" within the city limits."

What are some alternatives to "enforcing the law"?

Some alternatives include "applying the law", "implementing the law", or "upholding the law", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "enforcing the law" or should it be "enforcing the rules"?

"Enforcing the law" is used specifically for legal statutes, while "enforcing the rules" is more appropriate for internal regulations or guidelines.

What is the difference between "enforcing the law" and "interpreting the law"?

"Enforcing the law" refers to the act of ensuring laws are followed, whereas "interpreting the law" involves determining the meaning and scope of the law, often done by courts.