Definition

Not put into action or applied; not enforced by rules or laws.

Example

The regulations are unenforced, so many people ignore them.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new rules at school?

Yeah, but I feel like they are mostly unenforced.

Exactly! It seems like no one is really following them.

Right? It's frustrating when rules don't actually mean anything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unenforced → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "enforce" (from Old French *enforcier*, meaning to strengthen or compel). The word "unenforced" means not compelled or not made to happen by force.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' ('un-') being 'compelled' ('enforce') — that's why unenforced means it is not made to happen by force.

Visually Confused Words