impose on
Idioms-
Force something on someone; also, levy a tax or duty. For example, Don't try to impose your ideas on me , or The British crown imposed a tariff on tea . [Late 1500s]
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Force oneself on others; take unfair advantage of. For example, Am I imposing on you if I stay overnight? or He's always imposing on us, dropping in unexpectedly with numerous friends . [Early 1600s]
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.
Among the many quotes Ross left with his audience is one that dismantles intimidating concepts about natural ability, the kind of artistic gatekeeping we often impose on ourselves.
From Salon • May 2, 2026
But guardianship and conservatorship are among the most sweeping legal interventions courts may impose on adults.
From Slate • Mar. 12, 2026
This is the most profitable line of business for many banks, producing $120 billion in interest income and $162 billion in fees, chiefly those the card issuers impose on merchants.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2026
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent went as far as to say that he did not expect the 100% levy Trump had threatened to impose on Chinese goods to take effect.
From BBC • Oct. 29, 2025
“It is a punishment I impose on myself,” La Llorona began.
From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
