in force
Idioms-
In full strength, in large numbers, as in Demonstrators were out in force . This usage originally alluded to a large military force. [Early 1300s]
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Operative, binding, as in This rule is no longer in force . This usage originally alluded to the binding power of a law. [Late 1400s]
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Hosepipe ban in force as drought threatens - is your area affected?
From BBC ● Jul. 29, 2026
The Greeks had the advantage in force but the Persians could block their passage, harass them or leave them bereft of food.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 27, 2026
Hosepipe bans are in force for millions of customers.
From BBC ● Jul. 24, 2026
Five of those countries have restrictions already in force, according to an AFP tally.
From Barron's ● Jul. 21, 2026
Your banqueting young lords are here in force, I gather, from the fumes of mutton roasting and strum of harping—harping, which the gods appoint sweet friend of feasts!”
From "The Odyssey" by Homer
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
