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 county currently has a base sales tax rate of 9.75%, and cities impose additional local taxes on top of that.

From Los Angeles Times • 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

Judge Reed expressed serious misgivings about the sentence he was forced to impose.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Vocabulary lists containing impose

The Declaration of Independence

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

List 2

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!