impose an embargo

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impose an embargo" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of officially restricting trade or other economic activity with a particular country or entity. Example: "In response to the ongoing conflict, the government decided to impose an embargo on all imports from the affected region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

The European Union will impose an embargo on Iranian oil starting this Sunday.

The New York Times

He is pressing, with his French counterpart, Alain Juppé, for the European Union to impose an embargo on Iranian oil.

The Economist

The first campaign in the war to protect the American homeland was to impose an embargo -- on our own economy.

The New York Times

The main sanctions seek to impede the nuclear industry, impose an embargo on heavy weapons sales and push for ship inspections.

The New York Times

Congress passed a resolution permitting President Franklin Roosevelt to impose an embargo on arms shipments to both countries, and he did.

The New Yorker

The other two would impose an embargo on arms sales and diamond exports and enlarge the United Nations peacekeeping force and strengthen its powers.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Anyone who imposes an embargo will impose it on themselves because of Syria's strategic location.

The Guardian

She stood up to Russia in 2008 when it imposed an embargo on Polish meat exports.

The New York Times

For its part, the European Union has imposed an embargo on Iranian oil.

The Economist

The United Nations imposed an embargo on the sale and delivery of arms to Darfur in 2004.

The New York Times

Britain had already broken off diplomatic relations and imposed an embargo on arms shipments.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "impose an embargo", clearly specify the target (country, entity, product) and the reason for the embargo to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "impose an embargo" carries a formal tone. Avoid using it in casual conversation; opt for simpler phrases like "ban" or "restrict" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impose an embargo" functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of officially enacting a restriction on trade or commerce with a specific country or entity. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "impose an embargo" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of officially restricting trade or commerce. Ludwig's analysis indicates it is commonly found in news and media, formal business contexts, and encyclopedias. While the phrase is appropriate for formal writing and discussions, consider using simpler alternatives like "ban" or "restrict" in informal settings. Remember to clearly specify the target and reason for the embargo when using this phrase to maintain clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Impose trade sanctions

Specifically targets trade-related penalties as a form of sanction.

Implement trade restrictions

Highlights the actions of putting into effect limitations on trade.

Enact trade restrictions

Focuses specifically on trade-related limitations, omitting other potential aspects of an embargo.

Institute a trade ban

Clearly communicates the establishment of a prohibition on trade activities.

Apply sanctions

Broader term that encompasses various penalties, including but not limited to trade restrictions.

Establish economic sanctions

Broader scope by affecting different financial and economical aspects.

Place a blockade

Involves physically preventing access or trade, suggesting a more aggressive approach.

Levy trade barriers

Describes the act of putting up obstacles to trade.

Restrict commerce

Highlights the limitation of commercial activities, suitable in economic contexts.

Prohibit trade

Emphasizes the illegality of trade, indicating a strong regulatory stance.

FAQs

How is "impose an embargo" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "impose an embargo" is generally used to describe an official action taken by a government or international body to restrict trade or commerce with another country or entity. For example: "The European Union will "impose an embargo" on Iranian oil."

What are some alternative phrases for "impose an embargo"?

You can use alternatives such as "enact trade restrictions", "apply sanctions", or "place a blockade" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "impose an embargo" and "apply sanctions"?

"Impose an embargo" specifically refers to restricting trade or commerce, while "apply sanctions" is a broader term that can include financial penalties, travel restrictions, and other measures.

Is it correct to say "enforce an embargo" instead of "impose an embargo"?

While both can be used, ""impose an embargo"" refers to the initial decision to implement the restriction, whereas "enforce an embargo" refers to the actions taken to ensure the embargo is followed and not violated.