should enforce

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should enforce" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the necessity or obligation to implement rules, laws, or policies. Example: "The government should enforce stricter regulations to protect the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The police should enforce laws.

The New York Times

Officials should enforce tough building codes in seismic areas.

The New York Times

Above all, election officials should enforce the law accurately.

The New York Times

These commands we should enforce firmly and to the letter.

Cornell University

My view is that we should enforce immigration laws.

The New York Times

But the Saudis said OPEC should enforce its existing cutbacks.

The New York Times

"The administration should enforce immigration laws, not look for ways to ignore them.

The New York Times

It should enforce those, and leave the day laborers — and the Constitution — alone.

The New York Times

Third, cabs: The Taxi and Limousine Commission should enforce rules against needless honking.

The New York Times

And finally, courts should enforce the constitutional requirement that property be taken only for public use.

The New York Times

"If you're going to have a shot clock, you should enforce it.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "should enforce", clearly specify who is responsible for enforcing what. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "should enforce" when the likelihood of enforcement is low or uncertain. Instead, consider phrases like "could enforce" or "might consider enforcing" to reflect the level of probability accurately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "should enforce" typically functions as a verb phrase expressing obligation or recommendation. It indicates that a particular rule, law, or policy ought to be actively implemented and maintained. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

27%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "should enforce" is grammatically correct and widely used to express the necessity or recommendation of implementing rules, laws, or policies. Ludwig's analysis reveals its prevalence in news, science, and academic contexts, highlighting its role in advocating for compliance and achieving desired outcomes. To ensure clarity, always specify who is responsible for enforcing what. While adaptable, avoid overstating the certainty of enforcement when the likelihood is low. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valuable when used accurately and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should implement

Focuses on putting a plan or system into effect.

should uphold

Suggests maintaining or defending something, like a principle or law.

should apply

Highlights the action of putting something into use or operation.

should strengthen

Focuses on making something more robust or effective.

should ensure

Highlights the need to guarantee a particular outcome.

should reinforce

Focuses on strengthening or supporting an existing structure or idea.

should comply

Emphasizes adherence to rules or standards.

should maintain

Emphasizes keeping something in good condition or working order.

should assert

Stresses the act of confidently declaring or defending a right or claim.

should coerce

Implies forcing compliance, often through pressure or threats.

FAQs

How can I use "should enforce" in a sentence?

The phrase "should enforce" is used to express that someone has a duty or obligation to make sure a rule or law is followed. For example, "The police should enforce the law" or "The company should enforce its safety regulations."

What are some alternatives to saying "should enforce"?

You can use alternatives like "should implement", "should uphold", or "should ensure" depending on the context.

What does it mean when someone says something "should be enforced"?

It means that there's a belief or recommendation that something, like a rule or law, needs to be actively applied and followed by the relevant authorities or parties. Often it implies that it is currently not being followed well enough and someone "should implement" its practice more rigorously.

Is there a difference between "must enforce" and "should enforce"?

Yes, "must enforce" implies a stronger obligation or requirement than "should enforce". "Must" indicates there is no option, while "should" suggests a recommendation or best practice. For example, a court "must enforce" a valid contract, while a company "should enforce" ethical guidelines.