it comes into force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it comes into force" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the time when a law, regulation, or agreement becomes effective. Example: "The new policy will come into force on January 1st, 2024."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

The Lisbon treaty has had so many setbacks in the eight long years of its inception that even if it comes into force by the end of the year, it is likely to be the last major treaty the European Union signs.

The Guardian - Opinion

It comes into force in May 2003, and already ways are being found round it.

The Economist

It's called the soft drinks industry levy, and it comes into force on 6 April.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It comes into force this week alongside a range of other tax and benefit changes.

The Guardian

This is likely to be a requirement under the care bill when it comes into force.

The Guardian

Each parliament -- including those of next year's 10 newcomers -- must ratify the document before it comes into force.

The New York Times

It comes into force next April, which does not give employers a lot of time to prepare.

The Guardian

Some 55 countries covering 55% of global emissions must formally approve or ratify the agreement before it comes into force.

The Guardian

When it comes into force in spite of their votes, Sunnis will not feel that they have been massively empowered by the ballot box.

The Economist

His position on what to do about the treaty after it comes into force is still opaque, even though that is imminent.

The Economist

Its arcane rules require 55 countries (representing at least 55% of the industrial world's greenhouse-gas emissions in 1990) to ratify the pact before it comes into force.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the timing of laws, regulations, or agreements, use "it comes into force" to clearly indicate the date or event from which they are legally binding or operational.

Common error

Avoid using past or future tenses incorrectly. For example, don't say "it will came into force" or "it came into force next year". Use the present tense when referring to a future date or condition: "it comes into force next year".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it comes into force" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the moment a rule, law, or agreement becomes operational. It signifies the transition from planning or approval to active implementation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it comes into force" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that indicates the moment a rule, law, or agreement becomes operational. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to specify the effective date or condition. Predominantly found in news and formal business contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral to professional register. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "it becomes effective" or "it takes effect", depending on the desired level of formality. Remember to use the correct tense to avoid common grammatical errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it becomes effective

More formal and direct, emphasizing the start of effectiveness.

it takes effect

Similar to "becomes effective" but slightly less formal.

it goes into effect

American English alternative, interchangeable with "takes effect".

it is implemented

Focuses on the action of putting something into practice.

it is enacted

Often used in legal contexts, referring to the formal passing of a law.

it is put into action

Emphasizes the commencement of active operation.

it is enforced

Highlights the application of a rule or law.

it is operational

Focuses on the functionality and readiness for use.

it starts operating

Emphasizes the beginning of functionality.

it is in effect

Describes the state of being operational, rather than the moment of commencement.

FAQs

How can I use "it comes into force" in a sentence?

You can use "it comes into force" to indicate when a law, rule, or agreement becomes effective. For example, "The new regulation "it comes into force" on January 1, 2026."

What is a good alternative to "it comes into force"?

Alternatives to "it comes into force" include "it becomes effective", "it takes effect", or "it is implemented". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "it comes into force" and "it comes into effect"?

While similar, "it comes into force" often implies a legal or regulatory context, whereas "it comes into effect" can be used more broadly. The phrases are often interchangeable, but "force" is more specific to laws and rules.

When should I use "it comes into force" instead of "it is in effect"?

"It comes into force" refers to the moment something begins to be effective. "It is in effect" describes the state of something already being operational. Use "it comes into force" when discussing the start date, and "it is in effect" when describing something that is currently active.