What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enforce
Example
The police were called to enforce the curfew in the city. [enforce: verb]
Example
The company has strict policies in place to enforce ethical behavior. [enforce: verb]
apply
Example
I need to apply sunscreen before going out in the sun. [apply: verb]
Example
She was able to apply her knowledge of physics to solve the problem. [apply: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Apply is more commonly used than enforce in everyday language. Apply is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while enforce is less common and often used in a more formal or professional context.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between enforce and apply?
While enforce is typically associated with a formal or professional tone, apply is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
