Imposition
/ˌɪmpəˈzɪʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe action of imposing something, such as a tax, penalty, or burden.
/ˌɪmpəˈzɪʃən/
The act of imposing something or the state of being imposed.
The new regulations were viewed as an imposition on the businesses.
💡 Simply: It's when someone makes you do something you don't want to, like a homework assignment on a holiday. It can also be a tax or rule that's forced on you.
👶 For kids: When someone makes you do something you don't want to do, like a rule or a chore.
More Examples
The government's tax imposition was met with public protest.
She considered his constant requests an imposition on her time.
How It's Used
"The imposition of a fine for speeding."
"He felt the new rules were an imposition on his freedom."
An unwelcome demand or burden.
/ˌɪmpəˈzɪʃən/
An unfair or unwelcome demand or burden.
I hope my visit is not an imposition.
💡 Simply: It's like when your friend asks you to do something, but it's a bit of a hassle and you didn't want to. For example, asking someone to babysit last minute.
👶 For kids: When someone asks you to do something, and you think it's not fair or a bother.
More Examples
She felt asking her for a ride would be an imposition.
It's an imposition to have to work on a holiday.
How It's Used
"I hope I'm not an imposition by asking for help."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
an imposition on
An unwelcome or inconvenient burden or demand placed upon someone or something.
"I hope I'm not being an imposition on your time by asking for help."
From Middle French *imposition*, from Latin *impositio* ('a placing upon, a laying on'), from *imponere* ('to put upon, impose').
The word's usage reflects a transition from describing actions of imposing to expressing the burden or unwelcome nature of the action itself.
Memory tip
Imagine *im* placing a *position* on someone. Think of an unwelcome demand.
Word Origin
"to place, put"