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impose
/ɪmˈpoʊz/
to force something unwelcome
The government imposed a new tax on luxury goods.
The government made people pay an additional tax on expensive items.
formal
to force (an unwelcome decision or ruling) to be accepted or complied with
The company imposed strict deadlines on the project.
The company required the team to meet very tight project deadlines.
She imposed her will on the group without asking.
She forced her preferences on the group without considering their opinions.
Often used with 'on' to indicate the target of the imposition (e.g., 'impose on others').
informal
to take advantage of someone by demanding their attention or commitment
He always imposes on his friends for rides.
He frequently asks his friends to give him rides without reciprocating.
Common in social contexts where someone exploits another's kindness.
Collocations
impose on/uponto unfairly use someone's resources or kindnessimpose a fine/tax/penaltyto officially require payment or punishmentimpose restrictionsto establish rules that limit freedom or actions
Pro Tip
Preposition Matters
Always use 'on' or 'upon' after 'impose' when referring to the target (e.g., 'impose a rule on employees').
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Do not use 'impose' for neutral or positive actions. It inherently carries a sense of unwelcome burden.
Word Origin
From Latin 'imponere' (to place upon), from 'in-' (into, upon) + 'ponere' (to put, place). The word entered English in the late 16th century with the sense of 'to lay or place something upon', later evolving to imply force or burden.
Usage Notes
Use 'impose' when the subject has authority or power to enforce something unwelcome. Avoid using it for neutral or positive actions (e.g., not 'impose a reward' but 'grant a reward').
Word Breakdown
im-
into, upon
prefix-pose
to put, place
rootEnglish Dictionary