impose

Everyday

1. To make a rule, tax or punishment that people must accept. tree →
2. To force your ideas or wishes on other people. tree →
3. (impose on) To ask too much of someone, causing them trouble, as in «I don't want to impose». tree →

In the lessons

In social studies: governments impose taxes or speed limits. At school: a teacher imposes a rule or a detention. In everyday politeness: «I don't want to impose» means «I don't want to be a bother». Adjective imposing means large and impressive.

Examples

• The council imposed a speed limit near the school. tree →
• The referee imposed a penalty. tree →
• Don't impose your choice on everyone. tree →
• I don't want to impose, but could I stay for tea? tree →
• The government imposed a new tax on sugar. tree →
• The castle was an imposing sight. tree →
• Princes come from all quarters to ask her hand, and on one and all she imposes a condition. tree →

Note

Regular. Noun: imposition. Note imposing (adjective) = big and impressive, a different sense. In maths word problems, an imposed tax or fine adds to the cost.

In Jewish tradition

It means to lay a tax or duty on people, as in the Persian king's order excusing temple workers.

Interpretation. The letter of the king shows the Temple servants had special protection, and tradition values this support for rebuilding God's house.

Examples

• Also we announce to you, that touching any of the priests and Levites, the singers, porters, Nethinim, or servants of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose tribute, impost, or toll, upon them. (Writings EZR.7.24, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Regular. Noun: imposition. Note imposing (adjective) = big and impressive, a different sense. In maths word problems, an imposed tax or fine adds to the cost.