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noun C2 Proficient Uncommon

imposition

ihm-puh-ZIHSH-uhn

Imposition (noun) means an unwelcome demand or burden placed on someone. Example: “Staying an extra week would be too much of an imposition.”

noun
1
An unwelcome demand or burden placed on someone.
"Staying an extra week would be too much of an imposition."
2
The act of officially establishing or enforcing something, such as a tax or rule.
"The imposition of new sanctions strained relations between the two countries."

How to use imposition

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA burden forced on someone, or the act of officially enforcing a rule, tax, or restriction.

Common pairings
an imposition on imposition of sanctions

Word forms

impositions plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Staying an extra week would be too much of an _____.

Etymology

From Latin impositio, related to impose.

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for imposition

See all rhymes for imposition →

Frequently asked questions

What does “imposition” mean?

The word “imposition” means an unwelcome demand or burden placed on someone. In plain terms, a burden forced on someone, or the act of officially enforcing a rule, tax, or restriction.

How do you pronounce “imposition”?

“Imposition” is pronounced ihm-puh-ZIHSH-uhn (/ˌɪm.pəˈzɪʃ.ən/ in IPA).

How do you use “imposition” in a sentence?

Here is “imposition” used in a sentence: “Staying an extra week would be too much of an imposition.”

What part of speech is “imposition”?

“Imposition” is a noun.

Where does the word “imposition” come from?

The word “imposition” comes from Latin. From Latin impositio, related to impose.

Is “imposition” a common word?

“Imposition” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.

How many meanings does “imposition” have?

“Imposition” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an unwelcome demand or burden placed on someone.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial