left in force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "left in force" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that a particular law, regulation, or agreement remains valid and applicable. Example: "The previous contract was left in force until the new agreement was finalized."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There was one flood warning and seven flood alerts left in force in Wales by Monday afternoon, down from 26 warnings at the start of the day, and a yellow warning of heavy rain across south and west Wales.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

MAPLE LEAFS 4, PANTHERS 3 Matt Sundin's second goal with a little more than a minute left in regulation forced overtime, and visiting Toronto went on to a shootout victory.

The New York Times

The Penguins' Robert Lang scored with under a minute left in regulation to force overtime.

The New York Times - Sports

The Tigers needed a fourth-down conversion with just over a minute left in regulation to force overtime.

The New York Times - Sports

"We are gratified that the U.S. Court of Appeals rejected Qualcomm's motion for a stay, leaving in force the injunction against Qualcomm's infringement issued by the U.S. District Court in Santa Ana," Broadcom General Counsel David Dull said in a statement.

TechCrunch

A year later, a string of revelations have further dented any trust we may have left in the force.

The Guardian - Opinion

Brian Boyle's goal tied the score for the Rangers with 5 minutes 19 seconds left in regulation, forcing overtime.

The New York Times

The Canadiens' Max Pacioretty scored his second power-play goal of the game with 12.6 seconds left in regulation, forcing overtime.

The New York Times

The Red Wings captain Henrik Zetterberg's goal with 16.4 seconds left in regulation forced the extra period.

The New York Times - Sports

Samsonov's first goal of the night and 19th of the season with 4 22 left in regulation forced the overtime.

The New York Times - Sports

Dainius Zubrus and David Clarkson scored for the Devils, with Clarkson's goal with 5 minutes 28 seconds left in regulation forcing an overtime that featured 10 shots.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "left in force", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is remaining valid or operational. Be specific about the subject to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "left in force" implies universal application. Clearly define the specific area or entities to which the rule or agreement applies to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "left in force" functions as a verbal phrase combined with a prepositional phrase, indicating that something is being maintained or allowed to continue its effect. Ludwig's examples show it commonly describes laws, regulations, or agreements that remain valid.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "left in force" is a formal expression indicating that something remains valid and operational. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and typically used in legal or formal contexts. While "left in force" appears most frequently in news and media, it can also be used in scientific and formal business contexts. Understanding its scope is key to its correct application, as is avoiding assumptions of universal application. Alternatives such as "remains valid" or "still in effect" may be more appropriate for informal settings. Considering the analysis, it's a useful phrase but one that needs to be used with care to maintain clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remains in effect

Replaces 'force' with 'effect' maintaining a nearly identical meaning.

remains valid

Focuses on the continued validity, omitting the concept of 'force'.

still in effect

Replaces "force" with "effect", emphasizing the ongoing operation of something.

remains operative

Uses "operative" instead of "force", highlighting the active state.

continues to apply

Emphasizes the ongoing application or relevance of something.

still applicable

Similar to "continues to apply" but uses a more concise adjectival form.

continues in operation

Uses more formal language to convey the idea of something still being active.

remains enforceable

Highlights the ability to enforce a rule or agreement.

is still binding

Focuses on the legally binding nature of an agreement or rule.

has not been repealed

Specifically indicates that a law or regulation has not been revoked.

FAQs

What does "left in force" mean?

The phrase "left in force" means that something, such as a rule, regulation, or agreement, remains valid, operational, and has not been canceled or revoked.

When is it appropriate to use "left in force"?

It is appropriate to use "left in force" in formal contexts such as legal documents, official announcements, or when discussing policies that remain valid. In less formal settings, alternatives like "still in effect" or "remains valid" might be more suitable.

What are some alternatives to "left in force"?

Some alternatives to "left in force" include "remains operative", "continues to apply", "still applicable", or "remains enforceable". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "left in force" grammatically correct?

Yes, "left in force" is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, particularly in legal or formal settings.