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Definition impose in British English

impose verb

verb
/ɪmˈpəʊz/

▪ ban, curfew, embargo, fine, moratorium, obligation, penalty, restriction, sanction

People often use this word when they are politely refusing an invitation, or when they are politely persuading someone to accept an invitation.

1

to introduce something such as a new law or new system, and force people to accept it

Example

They have imposed restrictions on trade with foreign companies.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to force someone to have the same opinion, belief, etc as you

Example

I wouldn't want to impose my views on anyone.

Synonyms and related words
1.2

to give someone something unpleasant to deal with

Example

This new tax is imposing an unfair burden on employers.

Synonyms and related words
2

to cause extra work for someone by asking them to do something that may not be convenient for them

Example

They invited me to dinner, but I didn't like to impose.

Example

Please come and stay. You wouldn't be imposing on us at all.

Example

I was worried that they would think I was imposing myself.

Synonyms and related words
Definition impose in British English