to introduce a rule, tax, fine, or punishment and make people accept or obey it
After the hurricane, the city council imposed a night-time curfew to keep residents safe.
The government imposed higher taxes on cigarettes to discourage smoking.
✦ Late Middle English from Old French imposer, from Latin imponere ‘put upon, inflict’.
to force someone to accept something they do not want, such as an idea, belief, or duty
Please don’t impose your political views on others.
He often imposes his choice of music on passengers in his car.
to expect someone to do something for you or accept your presence, especially when it inconveniences them
I hope I’m not imposing by staying another night.
They never visit unannounced because they hate imposing on friends.
