Definitions

impose

[im-pohz] / ɪmˈpoʊz /

VERB

set, dictate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appoint charge demand enforce establish foist force inflict institute introduce lay down levy order place promulgate put require

STRONG

burden command compel constrain decree encroach enjoin exact fix infringe intrude lade lay oblige obtrude ordain prescribe presume saddle trespass visit wish wreak wreck

WEAK

force upon horn in lay down the law move in on put foot down read riot act take advantage

Antonyms

STRONGEST

disorder displace forget overlook prevent remove

STRONG

aid help neglect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara last week threatened to suspend State Farm’s license and impose steep penalties for alleged “widespread violations” in handling L.A. wildfire claims.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

He added that Warsh will not simply be able to impose his will on the central bank, and will have to work with his fellow policymakers.

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

The aide, Kim Yong-beom, subsequently clarified he wanted to tap the growing tax revenue and not impose a higher tax rate.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

Israeli foreign minister Sa'ar said Israel "firmly rejects the decision to impose sanctions on Israeli citizens and organisations".

From BBC • May 11, 2026

Miss Whitlaw did not want to impose upon her neighbors again and ask them to watch their things.

From "Dragonwings" by Laurence Yep

Vocabulary lists containing impose

The Declaration of Independence

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List 2

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"The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin

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