In force
adverb
Being actively in effect or operation.
The law is still in force, which means it's active and needs to be obeyed.

Often appears as...
- still in force
- remain in force
adverb
Exists in a large number or amount.
The fans were out in force to support their beloved team.

Often appears as...
- out in force
- show up in force
Usage tips
Colloquial
adverb
Enforced or applied strongly and rigorously.
The new regulations will come into force next week.

Often appears as...
- come into force
- put into force
Usage tips
Formal, Approving
adverb
Being actively in effect or operation.
The law is still in force, which means it's active and needs to be obeyed.

Often appears as...
- still in force
- remain in force
adverb
Exists in a large number or amount.
The fans were out in force to support their beloved team.

Often appears as...
- out in force
- show up in force
Usage tips
Colloquial
adverb
Enforced or applied strongly and rigorously.
The new regulations will come into force next week.

Often appears as...
- come into force
- put into force
Usage tips
Formal, Approving
Definition 1 of 3

Legal Consequences
Use 'in force' to highlight that rules or laws must be followed, as they are legally binding.

The curfew is in force, and violators will be fined.
Temporal Phrase
'In force' often precedes or follows time clauses, referring to when a law or rule is active.

The new policy is in force from January 1st.
Current Relevance
Indicates that a regulation or agreement is currently applicable or needs to be followed now.

The historic treaty is still in force and must be upheld.
Legal Consequences
Use 'in force' to highlight that rules or laws must be followed, as they are legally binding.

The curfew is in force, and violators will be fined.
Temporal Phrase
'In force' often precedes or follows time clauses, referring to when a law or rule is active.

The new policy is in force from January 1st.
Current Relevance
Indicates that a regulation or agreement is currently applicable or needs to be followed now.

The historic treaty is still in force and must be upheld.
Legal Consequences
Use 'in force' to highlight that rules or laws must be followed, as they are legally binding.

The curfew is in force, and violators will be fined.
Temporal Phrase
'In force' often precedes or follows time clauses, referring to when a law or rule is active.

The new policy is in force from January 1st.
Current Relevance
Indicates that a regulation or agreement is currently applicable or needs to be followed now.

The historic treaty is still in force and must be upheld.
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