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.

Most of those tariffs have since disappeared, but the recent proposal to impose 25 percent tariffs on some Brazilian products for alleged unfair trade practices has once again rankled Brasilia.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

Will the administration’s new attempt to impose broad tariffs stick?

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

According to the Sentencing Council, an absolute discharge means that "the court has decided not to impose a punishment because the experience of going to court has been punishment enough".

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

The judge, Madam Justice McBride, said that in light of the pleas, the only sentence she could impose was that of a life sentence.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

All rulers of all ages have tried to impose a false view of the world upon their followers, but they could not afford to encourage any illusion that tended to impair military efficiency.

From "1984" by George Orwell

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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