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enact

in-AKT /ɪˈnækt/

verbC1GRESATTOEFL

formal

To make (a bill) into a law; to put into effect.

Implies a formal, official process of bringing a law or rule into existence. It's not just proposing, but finalizing and implementing.

The story behind the word. The word 'enact' comes from the Old French 'enactier', which itself is built from 'en-' (meaning 'in' or 'into') and the Latin 'actus' (meaning 'done' or 'driven'). 'Actus' is the past participle of 'agere', 'to do' or 'to drive'. So, to 'enact' a law is literally to 'make it into an act' – to bring it into being as a formal deed or law.

Word relationships

pass: Often used interchangeably, but 'pass' can refer specifically to a legislative body approving a bill, while 'enact' implies the final step of making it law.
promulgate: While 'promulgate' means to make known, 'enact' means to make into law. One often follows the other.
implement: To put a decision or plan into effect; 'enact' is specifically about making a law, 'implement' is about carrying it out.

repeal: To revoke or cancel a law, the opposite of enacting it.
veto: To reject a bill, preventing it from being enacted.

Word family

enactment (noun): the process of enacting or a law that has been enacted

Collocations

enact legislation
enact a law
enact reforms
enact a policy

Example sentences

"The parliament voted to enact stricter environmental regulations to protect endangered species." Government Action
"It was not until 1920 that the 19th Amendment was finally enacted, granting women the right to vote." Historical Context

Memory hook

To 'ENACT' is to 'EN'd the debate and 'ACT' on the bill, making it law. End debate, act

When not to use

Do not use 'enact' for informal rules or suggestions. It's reserved for formal, legal, or official decrees.

Fun facts

The word 'enact' can also mean to 'perform a role on stage', linking back to its root meaning of 'to do' or 'to act out'.