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Imposition: meaning, definitions and examples

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imposition

 

[ɪmˈpəʊzɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal term

Imposition refers to the act of placing a burden or duty upon someone, often in a legal context. It can refer to the establishment of a tax, law, or obligation that must be adhered to. The term is frequently used to describe the enforcement of rules or regulations that may be considered a hindrance to individuals or groups. In essence, it embodies the idea of an authority imposing its will onto others, which can create tension or disagreement.

Synonyms

enforcement, establishment, levy, mandate, obligation.

Examples of usage

  • The imposition of new taxes angered the citizens.
  • There was an imposition of strict regulations on environmental protection.
  • He faced the imposition of the court's ruling.
  • The community protested against the imposition of a curfew.
Context #2 | Noun

social context

In a broader social context, imposition can refer to the act of taking advantage of someone's kindness or hospitality. This usage often relates to the unwelcome presence or demand placed upon someone else, which can lead to feelings of discomfort or resentment. It may involve expectations that are not reciprocated or the assumption that one can impose on someone else's time, resources, or space.

Synonyms

burden, demand, inconvenience, intrusion, pressure.

Examples of usage

  • She felt the imposition of their demands was unreasonable.
  • His constant requests were seen as an imposition on their friendship.
  • The imposition of guests without notice is considered rude.
  • They perceived his behavior as an imposition on their time.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'impositio', meaning 'to place upon'.
  • It was first used in English in the late 14th century, originally relating to the placement of taxes or a burden on someone.
  • The prefix 'im-' denotes 'in, on, or not', while 'positio' relates to 'placing' or 'position'.

Law

  • In legal terms, an imposition can refer to the enforcement of rules or duties that one party places on another.
  • Tax laws often involve impositions where the government mandates payments from citizens.
  • In contract law, terms can impose certain obligations that one party must fulfill.

Social Dynamics

  • Impositions often arise in social situations when one person's expectations might unfairly burden another.
  • Cultural norms can create impositions, dictating behavior that may be uncomfortable for individuals.
  • Peer pressure is a form of imposition where groups influence members to conform to certain activities.

Psychology

  • Imposition may lead to feelings of resentment in those who feel forced to comply.
  • Understanding personal boundaries is crucial to avoid imposing on others' autonomy.
  • People often react negatively to impositions, associating them with stress or lack of control.

Art and Literature

  • In literature, a character's internal conflict may arise from an imposition of family or societal expectations.
  • Art often reflects impositions of culture, showcasing how external pressures shape individual expression.
  • Imposing themes can drive narratives, where characters struggle against societal norms or expectations.

Translations

Translations of the word "imposition" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imposição

🇮🇳 लगाना

🇩🇪 Auferlegung

🇮🇩 pengenaan

🇺🇦 нав'язування

🇵🇱 nałożenie

🇯🇵 課税

🇫🇷 imposition

🇪🇸 imposición

🇹🇷 yükleme

🇰🇷 부과

🇸🇦 فرض

🇨🇿 uvalení

🇸🇰 uvalenie

🇨🇳 征收

🇸🇮 impozicija

🇮🇸 auglýsing

🇰🇿 қосымша

🇬🇪 დაწესება

🇦🇿 tətbiq

🇲🇽 imposición

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,024 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.