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]
-
Operative, binding, as in This rule is no longer in force .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.
McGee’s devoted following came out in force: Deitch estimated that about 25,000 people visited.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 29, 2026
There are also widespread yellow warnings for wind and rain in force across many areas of the UK on Sunday.
From BBC ● Oct. 25, 2026
The carrier is set to restart in force on Sunday, with only four flights listed on its website as canceled—compared with over 30 scrapped each day since the airport closure on Oct.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 25, 2026
A severe amber wind warning for Storm Boelo remains in force until Sunday evening for much of Scotland and parts of northern England.
From BBC ● Oct. 25, 2026
Mosquitoes had been out in force for a while, but after the sun died they were chased into hiding by the suddenly crisp darkness.
From "The Milagro Beanfield War" by John Nichols
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
