power to enforce

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "power to enforce" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where authority or ability to implement rules, laws, or decisions is being discussed. Example: "The government has the power to enforce regulations that protect public health and safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So Syriza has a powerful point, but not much power to enforce it.

The Guardian

Congress shall have the power to enforce this article.

The New York Times

Mrs. Robinson has no power to enforce her recommendations.

The New York Times

But it has no power to enforce the decision.

The New York Times

These correspondents had no power to enforce their wishes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Will regulators have the will or power to enforce it?

The New York Times

But Mr. Tsvangirai has little power to enforce his bargain with Mr. Mugabe.

The New York Times

Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The attorney general's office does not have the power to enforce federal tax laws.

The New York Times

Section 2 The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tax officials will also be given more power to enforce the existing rules.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In persuasive writing, clarify the extent and limitations of the "power to enforce" to enhance the credibility of your argument.

Common error

Don't assume that having influence is the same as having the "power to enforce". Influence relies on persuasion, while enforcement relies on authority and the ability to impose consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "power to enforce" functions as a noun phrase acting as the subject or object of a sentence, typically referring to the legal or delegated authority to ensure compliance with rules, laws, or regulations. Ludwig AI confirms the usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "power to enforce" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression referring to the authority or ability to ensure compliance with rules, laws, or regulations. As Ludwig AI indicates, its usage is widespread across various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and academic settings. While alternatives like "authority to implement" or "ability to execute" exist, "power to enforce" clearly defines the capacity to compel adherence. Understanding the nuances of its usage, especially differentiating it from mere influence, is crucial for effective communication in legal, political, and administrative discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

authority to implement

Focuses on the formal right or authorization rather than just the capability.

right to impose

Emphasizes the legal or moral entitlement to enforce something.

ability to execute

Highlights the practical capacity to carry out enforcement.

capacity to administer

Implies a structured or organized approach to enforcement.

jurisdiction to apply

Refers to the specific legal scope within which enforcement can occur.

means to compel

Stresses the resources or methods available for ensuring compliance.

enforcement mandate

Highlights the official directive or instruction to enforce.

capability to regulate

Focuses on the broader aspect of controlling or governing through enforcement.

license to govern

Suggests a granted permission or authority to exert control through enforcement.

prerogative to exact

Emphasizes the exclusive right or privilege to enforce something.

FAQs

How can I use "power to enforce" in a sentence?

The phrase "power to enforce" is used to indicate the authority or ability to ensure that rules, laws, or decisions are followed. For example, "The regulatory agency has the "power to enforce" environmental regulations".

What is a synonym for "power to enforce"?

Alternatives to "power to enforce" include "authority to implement", "right to impose", or "ability to execute" depending on the context.

Who typically has the "power to enforce" laws?

The "power to enforce" laws is usually vested in government agencies, law enforcement, and regulatory bodies. The specific entity depends on the nature of the law.

What happens when an organization lacks the "power to enforce"?

When an organization lacks the "power to enforce", its recommendations or decisions may be non-binding, and it may need to rely on persuasion, collaboration, or other entities with enforcement capabilities.