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).