imposing

[im-poh-zing]

adjective

1. very impressive because of great size, stately appearance, dignity, elegance, etc..

   Notre Dame, Rheims, and other imposing cathedrals of France.

   Synonyms: august, grand, lofty, majestic, dignified

imposing

/ ɪmˈpəʊzɪŋ /

adjective

1. grand or impressive

   an imposing building

Other Word Forms

• imposingly adverb
• imposingness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of imposing¹

First recorded in 1645–55; impose + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Sunday’s game will be a test of that, because even though the Washington Commanders aren’t quite as imposing along the defensive line, they can still rush the passer.

From Los Angeles Times

He said his earlier order imposing a temporary pause did not prevent him from ruling on the legality of the repeal, and the 9th Circuit agreed.

From Los Angeles Times

Later the same month, Chinese ambassador to India Xu Feihong called the US a "bully" for imposing steep tariffs on India and other countries.

From BBC

But in imposing curfews and dismissing UN casualty reports, the government could be signalling that it may double down on repression rather than compromise.

From BBC

On 25 July this year, the Online Safety Act's Children's Codes came into force, imposing a legal duty to protect children online.

From BBC

Related Words

• commanding 
• grand 
• grandiose 
• imperial 
• magnificent 
• massive 
• monumental 
• noble 
• ominous 
• stately 
• striking 
• towering