could be imposed upon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be imposed upon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that may be enforced or applied to someone or something, often in a context of rules, regulations, or expectations. Example: "New regulations could be imposed upon businesses to ensure compliance with environmental standards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The record-breaking fine that could be imposed upon France's largest bank has alarmed French authorities.

The Guardian - Business

The Code of Hammurabi of ancient Babylonia (c. 1750 bce) provided that the death penalty could be imposed upon a proprietor for diluting beer.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This leads one to speculate on the possibility that the weave pattern of the undenatured bone matrix could be imposed upon the plasma membranes of competent or preprogrammed cell populations, which then synthesize relatively large quantities of alkaline phosphatase, and other enzymes associated with deposition of calcifiable matrix [ 10].

Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

At that point, duties could be imposed.

The New York Times

The neocon conceit that democracy could be imposed by force?

Independent

He declined to specify punishments that could be imposed.

Los Angeles Times

In Tahrir Square, people were relatively uninterested in who the next President might be; more important was the idea that whoever it was could not be imposed upon them, and that he could, once in office, be voted out again.

The New Yorker

"As the England manager, I am obviously now very concerned about the threat that is hanging over us and the sanction that could possibly be imposed upon the team," Hodgson said in a video message.

The Guardian - Sport

"As the England manager I am obviously now very concerned about the threat that is hanging over us and the sanction that could possibly be imposed upon the England team," said Hodgson, in a video shared by the Football Association on Twitter.

The Guardian - Sport

"It seems to me that it could be interpreted as a violation of the ethics law," he added, "and perhaps sanctions should be imposed upon individuals within the chamber".

The New York Times

Thus, Woodrow Wilson in 1901, the high noon of imperialism, confidently proclaiming "the universal world of commerce," could say that "the East is to be opened and transformed" and "the standards of the West are to be imposed upon it".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could be imposed upon" when discussing potential rules, regulations, or penalties that might affect an individual, group, or entity. This phrasing is best suited for formal contexts where the possibility of enforcement is being considered.

Common error

Avoid using "could be imposed upon" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "might happen to" or "may affect" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be imposed upon" functions as a modal passive construction. It indicates a possibility or potential for something (a rule, sanction, duty, etc.) to be enforced or applied to someone or something. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could be imposed upon" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the possibility of something being enforced or applied. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it is relatively rare. Its formal tone and frequent appearance in news, encyclopedias, and science suggest its suitability for professional and academic contexts. When a more casual tone is required, alternatives like "might affect" or "may happen to" can be used. Remember that "upon" adds formality compared to "could be imposed on".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could be placed upon

Substitutes "imposed" with "placed", offering a more neutral connotation.

can be enforced on

Emphasizes the enforceability aspect using "enforced on" instead of "imposed upon".

might be inflicted on

Replaces "imposed upon" with "inflicted on", suggesting a more negative and forceful application.

restrictions could be applied to

Highlights the limitation aspect with "restrictions" and uses "applied to".

may be levied against

Uses "levied against", which is often used in the context of fines, taxes or penalties.

sanctions might be applied to

Specifically mentions "sanctions" and uses "applied to" to convey the action.

requirements may be mandated for

Replaces with "requirements may be mandated for", focusing on the obligatory nature.

penalties may be assessed on

Focuses on the idea of "penalties" and utilizes "assessed on" to imply evaluation before imposing.

charges could be brought against

Frames it in terms of formal accusations with "charges" and "brought against".

duties might be assigned to

Shifts the context to obligations or responsibilities with "duties" and "assigned to".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "could be imposed upon" to sound more casual?

For a more casual tone, consider alternatives like "might affect", "could happen to", or "may be placed on". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is "could be imposed on" grammatically correct?

Yes, "could be imposed on" is grammatically correct. "Could be imposed upon" is also correct, with "upon" being a slightly more formal and less frequently used preposition than "on".

What's the difference between "could be imposed" and "could be imposed upon"?

The difference is subtle. "Could be imposed" is more direct and common, while "could be imposed upon" adds a layer of formality and sometimes suggests a more significant or burdensome impact.

What are some situations where using "could be imposed upon" is most appropriate?

"Could be imposed upon" is most appropriate in formal writing, legal contexts, or when discussing potential penalties, regulations, or requirements. It's often used when the act of imposing something has serious implications.