an imposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an imposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is burdensome or an unwelcome demand placed on someone. Example: "I hope this request isn't seen as an imposition on your time, but I would greatly appreciate your help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"An imposed solution is an imposition and not a solution.

The Guardian

"It's an imposition.

The New York Times

"But it's an imposition.

The New York Times

"It is an imposition on the taxpayers".

The New York Times

"But that's a bit of an imposition".

The New York Times

"You know, this is not an imposition.

The New Yorker

A plot is an imposition of pattern.

The Guardian - Books

Tax is seen as an imposition, a form of oppression.

Independent

"I feel my existence is an imposition on the planet".

The New Yorker

It's not like it's an imposition from somebody else".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Writing is an imposition on reality, sometimes a brutal one.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an imposition", consider the audience's perspective and soften the statement if necessary. For example, frame requests as "I hope this isn't an imposition" to show consideration.

Common error

While "an imposition" is a valid phrase, overuse can make writing sound overly formal or negative. Vary your language by using words like "inconvenience" or "burden" depending on the severity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an imposition" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a subject complement or object, describing something that is burdensome or unwanted. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an imposition" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something burdensome or an unwelcome demand. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, including news, academia, and business. When using "an imposition", be mindful of the audience and the potential negative connotations. Consider softening the language or using alternative phrases like "a burden" or "an inconvenience" depending on the context and the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a burden

Replaces "imposition" with a simpler, more direct term for something heavy or difficult to bear.

an unwelcome burden

Combines the concepts of "unwelcome" and "burden" to emphasize the negative aspects of something.

an inconvenience

Suggests something that causes trouble or difficulty, but to a lesser degree than an imposition.

an encumbrance

Implies something that hinders or impedes progress or freedom.

an unwelcome demand

Emphasizes the unwanted nature of a request or requirement.

a disruption

Focuses on the disturbance or interruption caused by something.

an intrusion

Highlights the invasive or unwelcome nature of something.

a troublesome obligation

Highlights an obligation that is difficult or causes problems.

a forced action

Emphasizes that something is not optional but required.

a mandate

A formal order, often perceived as an imposition if not welcomed.

FAQs

How can I use "an imposition" in a sentence?

You can use "an imposition" to describe something that is burdensome or an unwelcome demand. For example: "I hope this request isn't "an imposition" on your time." or "The new tax law is seen as "an imposition" on the taxpayers".

What are some alternatives to saying "an imposition"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a burden", "an inconvenience", or "an intrusion".

Is it better to say "a burden" or "an imposition"?

Both "a burden" and ""an imposition"" are correct, but "an imposition" is often perceived as more formal. The choice depends on the tone and context of your writing.

When might something be considered "an imposition"?

Something might be considered ""an imposition"" when it places an unwelcome or unfair demand on someone's time, resources, or effort. It often implies a sense of disruption or burden.