imposes; imposed; imposing
1
a
: to cause (something, such as a tax, fine, rule, or punishment) to affect someone or something by using your authority
The judge imposed a life sentence.
—usually + on or uponThe judge imposed a life sentence on the defendant.
impose [=levy] a tax on liquor
A curfew has been imposed upon the city's youth.
b
: to establish or create (something unwanted) in a forceful or harmful way
I needed to break free from the limits imposed by my own fear of failure.
2
: to force someone to accept (something or yourself)
—+ on or upon
He imposed his will on his subjects. [=he forced his subjects to do what he wanted them to do]
He imposes his personal beliefs on his employees.
I don't like having to impose myself on other people.
3
: to ask for or expect more than is fair or reasonable
She asked if I wanted a ride, but I declined. I didn't want to impose. [=I didn't want to cause trouble or inconvenience for her]
—often + on or uponI didn't want to impose on her. = I didn't want to impose on her kindness.
You shouldn't impose on/upon your friend's good nature.
Cite this Entry
“Impose.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/impose. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
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