Have teeth

usgb
verb

To be effective or powerful.

The new law will have teeth if it is backed by stringent penalties.
Visual representation of "have teeth" - To be effective or powerful

Often appears as...

  • legislation has teeth
  • rules have teeth

Usage tips

Formal, Approving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "have teeth"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Enforcement Power

Refers to a law or rule's ability to be imposed effectively.

Illustration for Enforcement Power
The environmental law has teeth due to the heavy fines for non-compliance.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Serious Consequences

Indicates that there will be significant penalties if the rule is broken.

Illustration for Serious Consequences
Beware, the company's new policy has teeth—violators will be suspended immediately.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Implying Urgency

Suggests the matter is important and requires immediate attention.

Illustration for Implying Urgency
The boss said the guidelines have teeth and must be applied at once.
Visual representation of the word "Have teeth"

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