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.

So why should the court now impose a restriction that does not appear anywhere in the Constitution?

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

Its latest move, on Monday, was to impose sanctions on one of Ms. Takaichi’s close aides.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

England's struggle to impose themselves on Uruguay meant it was a testing night for those wanting to impress.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

It can feel counterintuitive to go out with friends and then impose limits on your spontaneity.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 27, 2026

To impose an anachronism: desegregation simply did not compute.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson