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Operative, binding, as in This rule is no longer in force .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.
The measure will remain in force while the judge rules on a legal action filed by a citizen against the government and the armed forces over the alleged violation of the minors' fundamental rights.
From Barron's ● Sep. 3, 2026
"India's decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance remains in force."
From Barron's ● Aug. 31, 2026
A Section 60 order is now in force across eight Brent wards, giving police enhanced stop and search powers.
From BBC ● Aug. 26, 2026
Customers with a private passenger auto policy in force at any point in 2025 are eligible.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 19, 2026
It is a meeting of the Haves and Have-Nots in force, an insane clash between bodies of men, not between leaders.
From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White
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.
