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.

This week, the Chinese Foreign Ministry offered a firm response to Trump’s threat to impose a 50% tariff if Beijing is shown to have supplied arms to Iran.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Ma suspects the real reason is because “as the monopoly operator of long-distance transmission, State Grid can impose arbitrary fees.”

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

The California Supreme Court determines whether to impose the recommended discipline.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

Since the current war started, Iran has indicated it wants to impose new rules for traffic moving through the pivotal waterway.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

So it was a matter of deciding which family member she’d impose on.

From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers

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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