has the force of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has the force of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something carries the same weight, authority, or impact as something else, often in legal or formal contexts. Example: "The new regulation has the force of law, meaning it must be followed by all citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Second, it has the force of example.

The Economist

It has the force of a parable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Online education has the force of inevitability.

The New York Times - Magazine

On occasion it has the force of thunder.

The Economist

This particular account holder, however, has the force of more than 25 million "likes" behind him.

The New York Times

When that office renders an opinion, it has the force of law within the executive branch.

The New York Times

Mr Hollande has the force of a fresh mandate and may want to flex his muscles.

The Economist

Having it in writing -- writing that has the force of law -- is always a relief.

The New York Times

It has the force of law, and it applies until you change it".

The New Yorker

This is not an option, since an EU regulation has the force of law.

The Guardian

Only since her death has the force of what she endured hit home.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "has the force of" to emphasize that something is not merely symbolic but possesses real power or authority, like saying a ruling "has the force of law".

Common error

Avoid using "has the force of" when describing weak or uncertain effects. The phrase implies a substantial, undeniable impact, not a subtle suggestion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has the force of" primarily functions as a verbal phrase that ascribes a significant degree of power, authority, or impact to a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has the force of" is a versatile expression used to emphasize the significant impact, authority, or power of something. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely employed across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While its register can range from neutral to formal, it consistently conveys a sense of substantial influence, making it suitable for describing legal mandates, artistic revelations, or even personal convictions. Remember to use it accurately to avoid overstating the impact of weaker effects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carries the weight of

Emphasizes the burden or significance associated with something.

possesses the power of

Highlights the inherent ability to exert influence or control.

holds the authority of

Focuses on the legitimacy and right to command or enforce.

exerts the influence of

Indicates the active application of power or persuasion.

commands the impact of

Stresses the significant effect or impression created.

bears the strength of

Highlights the robustness and resilience of something.

embodies the spirit of

Suggests that something encapsulates the essential qualities of something else.

resonates with the energy of

Implies a deep connection and powerful emotional response.

reflects the intensity of

Emphasizes the high degree or level of something.

demonstrates the effect of

Focuses on observable consequences or results.

FAQs

How can I use "has the force of" in a sentence?

Use "has the force of" to convey that something possesses a significant impact, authority, or power. For example, "The new policy "has the force of law", requiring strict adherence."

What are some alternatives to "has the force of"?

You can use phrases like "carries the weight of", "possesses the power of", or "holds the authority of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say something "has the force of impact"?

While grammatically correct, "has the force of impact" is somewhat redundant. It's more concise and impactful to simply state what "has the force of" something more specific, such as "has the force of an explosion".

What's the difference between "has the force of law" and "is legally binding"?

""has the force of law"" implies that something is equivalent to a formal law, carrying the same weight and authority. "Is legally binding" simply means that an agreement or contract must be followed by law, but it may not have the same broad impact as a law.