Impose
To force a rule, tax, restriction, or burden on others, typically by authority; to place upon as an obligation or demand.
verbImpose
To force a rule, tax, restriction, or burden on others, typically by authority; to place upon as an obligation or demand.
verbImagine This
Imagine a city council passing a new noise ordinance and, with a firm knock of the gavel, imposing fines on violators. The town square fills with posters announcing, ‘Imposed by ordinance,’ making residents adjust their routines immediately.
Sounds Like
IM-POHZ
Looks Like
Looks like 'pose' with the prefix 'im-' (im- + pose): visually appears as a placement upon someone.
Remember This
Etymology: from Latin imponere = in- (upon) + ponere (to place). The word conveys putting something upon someone by authority, not simply suggesting it.
Other Forms
Connect With
enforce, enact, levy, foist, obligate
Note
Usage tips: always use impose with a direct object (e.g., impose a rule, a tax, a restriction, a burden). You can say 'impose on/upon' someone to indicate burdening or taking advantage of them (e.g., 'impose on someone's generosity'). Do not use 'impose' with 'to' after it (e.g., 'impose to do something' is incorrect).
Next Word
Impoverish
verb
Random Words