Enforceable
in-FOR-suh-buhl
/ɪnˈfɔːrsəbl/
Able to be imposed or put into effect; capable of being enforced by law.
Emphasizes the legal power to compel compliance with an agreement or rule, usually through a court of law.
The story behind the word. The word 'enforceable' comes from the Old French verb enforcier, meaning 'to strengthen' or 'to compel.' It's built from en- (in, into) and force (strength). So, something 'enforceable' is something that can be 'forced into effect' or 'strengthened' by legal authority. It carries the idea that there's a power behind the agreement, ready to make sure its terms are carried out, even if it requires legal compulsion.
Word relationships
- Binding: Imposing an obligation; legally compelling.
- Valid: Having legal force or authority.
- Operative: Having practical effect; effective.
- Unenforceable: Not capable of being imposed or put into effect by law.
- Void: Having no legal force or effect.
Commonly confused with
- Binding: 'Binding' means it creates an obligation; 'enforceable' means that obligation can be made to happen through legal means, often by a court.
Word family
- enforce (verb): to compel observance of or compliance with (a law, rule, or obligation)
- enforcement (noun): the act of compelling observance of or compliance with a law, rule, or obligation
Collocations
- legally enforceable
- enforceable contract
- enforceable right
- not enforceable
Example sentences
- "For a contract to be enforceable, it must contain an offer, acceptance, and consideration." Describing a legally valid contract.
- "Without clear penalties, the new policy may not be truly enforceable." Referring to a rule that can be made to be followed.
- "The court's judgment is legally enforceable, meaning the losing party must comply." Discussing the power of a judgment.
Memory hook
ENFORCEABLE means the law can ENFORCE it. ENFORCE-able: Can be ENFORCED.
When not to use
Do not use 'enforceable' for agreements that are merely morally compelling or socially expected but lack legal backing.
Fun facts
- The word 'force' itself comes from the same Latin root fortis ('strong'), emphasizing the power behind enforcement.
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