imperious

USAGE SUMMARY

"imperious" is an acceptable word in written English.
It is an adjective that means domineering in a haughty manner; arrogantly domineering or overbearing. For example: "The imperious manager was quick to bark orders at his subordinates without considering their feelings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Among those who may want to use Roma Vetus is Mediaset, a TV company owned by Silvio Berlusconi, Italy's notoriously imperial (or imperious) tycoon-turned-politician.

The Economist

The imperious tone of that last sentence is the key to the strangely subtle balance of generosity and authority that has enabled Busby to make such a huge contribution to British football.

The Guardian - Sport

The reported views, like HRH's pose, are imperious.

The Guardian

The midfield battle will be fierce – Paul Pogba and Geoffrey Kondogbia were imperious alongside each other when France won the Under-20 World Cup two years ago – and, although the former will miss these two ties through injury, the Italian side looks to be stronger throughout, especially up front.

The Guardian - Sport

You can ladle all the meaning on to it you like – and the sight and sound of middle England collectively losing its marbles for a Somali-born, west London-raised man of the people was something to behold – but at its core this was simply an imperious sporting feat.

The Guardian - Sport

These facts make Doc Martin a must-see for those prospective doctors who want to fit in to the medical establishment which, as you know, is filled with imperious, socially inept, grumpy doctors who may, if you're lucky, be brilliant.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He has since become essential to Juventus, an imperious presence in the centre for the Serie A leaders.

The Guardian - Sport

Federer had looked imperious in the first set, dropping just four points on his own serve, and after his scare in the second was again dominant in the third as he broke Berdych to love in the sixth game before serving out the match in complete control.

The Guardian - Sport

Ian Bell, Warwickshire's top-order batsman, was imperious in his intent of thwarting Sussex's thoughts of a victory at Edgbaston Durham v Northamptonshire Northants give chase but Durham's Jamie Harrison hinders momentum.

The Guardian - Sport

Dunn was looking in imperious form, netting from all over the circle.

The Guardian - Sport

He cut a forlorn and sometimes comic figure for most of his life, manoeuvred by aides and bossed about by first his mother, Simone, and elder sister, Marie-Denise (who demanded to be president in his place), and then his imperious wife.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "imperious," ensure that their actions genuinely reflect a sense of superiority and a desire to control others. Avoid using it casually or without justification.

Common error

Don't confuse "imperious" with simply being assertive or confident. "Imperious" carries a negative connotation of arrogance and a disregard for the feelings or opinions of others. Use it only when this negative nuance is intended.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "imperious" primarily functions to modify nouns, describing individuals or entities characterized by arrogance and a commanding presence. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where "imperious" precedes nouns like 'leader', 'manner', or 'tone'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Sport

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "imperious" is a grammatically sound adjective, widely employed to depict arrogance and domineering behavior, primarily within news and media contexts. Its connotation is typically negative, expressing disapproval of the subject's demeanor. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, this term is frequently used to modify nouns, such as 'leader' or 'manner', and its purpose is to communicate criticism. While related to other terms like "domineering" or "arrogant", it has its unique subtle aspects. When using "imperious", be mindful of its implications of haughtiness and its potential to convey a negative judgment. Steer clear of confusing it with mere assertiveness, and ensure that the context justifies the application of this term, as confirmed by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

domineering

Shares the sense of controlling others, but lacks the regal or urgent nuance of "imperious".

arrogant

Focuses on the feeling of superiority, while "imperious" emphasizes the outward display of authority.

overbearing

Suggests being overwhelming in manner, lacking the inherent authority implied by "imperious".

authoritarian

Highlights strict obedience to authority, differing from the more nuanced sense of command in "imperious".

dictatorial

Implies absolute rule and control, which can be a stronger connotation than "imperious".

commanding

Focuses on the act of giving orders effectively, whereas "imperious" includes a sense of entitlement.

haughty

Emphasizes pride and disdain, differing from the inherent power suggested by "imperious".

lordly

Implies a noble or aristocratic bearing, similar but less forceful than "imperious".

regal

Refers to royalty and stateliness, sharing only the aspect of authority with "imperious".

urgent

Highlights the need for immediate action, representing one specific aspect of "imperious" when used in that context.

FAQs

How can I use "imperious" in a sentence?

You can use "imperious" to describe someone who acts in a domineering and arrogant way, such as "The manager had an "imperious" manner that made employees uncomfortable."

What words are similar to "imperious"?

Similar words include "domineering", "arrogant", and "overbearing". Each of these words conveys a sense of superiority and control, but "imperious" often suggests a more formal or regal air.

Is "imperious" a positive or negative word?

"Imperious" is generally considered a negative word. It describes someone who is arrogantly domineering and expects to be obeyed without question.

What is the difference between "imperious" and "imperial"?

"Imperious" describes a person's domineering manner, while "imperial" relates to an empire or a supreme ruler. Although related in origin, their meanings and usage are distinct. For example, "The queen had an "imperious" gaze," versus "The "imperial" palace was grand."