enact
i-NAKT
/ɪˈnækt/
To make (a bill or other proposal) law; to put into practice (a plan or suggestion).
Specifically refers to the process of turning a proposed law into an actual law, or formally putting a plan into effect.
The story behind the word. The word 'enact' comes from the Old French 'enact,' meaning 'to perform' or 'to accomplish.' It's formed from 'en-' (in, into) and 'act' (from Latin 'actus,' meaning 'a doing' or 'a deed'). So, to enact is literally 'to put into action' or 'to make into a deed,' especially in the context of making a law.
Word relationships
- legislate: To make laws; 'enact' is the specific act of turning a bill into law.
- pass: To approve a bill or motion by vote; 'enact' implies the final step of making it law.
- implement: To put a decision or plan into effect; 'enact' is specifically for laws or formal plans.
- repeal: To revoke or cancel (a law or act).
- abolish: To formally put an end to (a system, practice, or institution).
Word family
- enactment (noun): The process of enacting something; a law or statute.
Collocations
- enact a law
- enact legislation
- enact a policy
- enact reforms
Example sentences
- "Congress worked late into the night to enact the new healthcare reform bill." Referring to making a law.
- "The city council plans to enact stricter zoning regulations next year." Referring to putting a plan into effect.
Memory hook
To 'ENACT' a law is to 'MAKE' it 'ACT'ive and real. Make it active.
When not to use
Do not use 'enact' for simply performing an action or carrying out a task; it implies a formal, often legislative, act of bringing something into being.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'enacting clause' is a specific part of a legislative bill that formally states that the bill is to become law, often beginning with 'Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives...'
- In some legal systems, a law is 'enacted' when it passes the legislature and is signed by the executive, but it may not 'come into force' until a later date.
Related words
Explore more words
implementation, enforce, legislation, promulgate, statute, bill
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