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Imposition: meaning, definitions and examples

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imposition

 

[ ɪmˈpəʊzɪʃən ]

Noun
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.

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 origin

The word 'imposition' originates from the Latin term 'impositio', meaning 'a placing upon', which is derived from 'imponere' ('to place upon') composed of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'on' and 'ponere' meaning 'to place'. This etymological background emphasizes the act of placing something upon another, whether it's a burden, rule, or obligation. First recorded in the English language in the late 14th century, the word began to encompass both legal meanings, such as the enforcement of a tax or duty, and broader social implications regarding the unwelcome demands placed on individuals. Over the centuries, 'imposition' has evolved to reflect various contexts, maintaining its core idea related to applying pressure or expectation onto others.

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.