Definition

Not able to be enforced or made to happen, often referring to laws or agreements that cannot be applied or upheld.

Example

The contract was deemed unenforceable due to its vague terms.

Conversation

I heard they made a new law, but it's actually unenforceable.

Really? What’s the point of having a law if it can’t be enforced?

Exactly! It just creates confusion for everyone involved.

Totally! It’s frustrating when laws are unenforceable like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unenforceable → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "enforce" (from Old French *enforcier*, meaning to strengthen or make effective), and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word describes something that is not capable of being enforced or made effective.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being able to 'make effective' ('enforce') something — that's why unenforceable means it cannot be enforced.

Visually Confused Words