use-of-force
use-of-force
UK[ˌjuːz əv ˈfɔːs]US[ˌjuːz əv ˈfɔːrs]
noun phrase
The application of physical coercion or strength by authorities, especially law enforcement or military personnel, to compel compliance or control a situation.
noun phrase
The legal and policy framework governing when and how such physical coercion may be legitimately employed.
Etymology
The phrase 'use of force' is a modern English legal and administrative compound. Its components have deep Germanic origins: 'use' derives from Old French 'user', ultimately from Latin 'uti' (to use); 'force' enters English from Old French 'force', from Late Latin 'fortia', a noun from Latin 'fortis' meaning 'strong'. The conceptual pairing of 'use' and 'force' to describe the regulated application of coercion is a development of institutional language, particularly in law, political philosophy, and policing. It encapsulates the key principle that force is not merely an occurrence but a deliberate tool, whose employment ('use') requires justification and is subject to limits, transforming raw strength ('force') into a governed concept of authority.
Analysis
N/A
Examples
The police department revised its policy on the use-of-force.
International law strictly regulates the use-of-force between sovereign states.
The officer's use-of-force was deemed proportionate to the threat.