impose it on

USAGE SUMMARY

"impose it on" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It means to force or apply something on someone or something else. Example: The company decided to impose strict regulations on their employees, causing some discontent among the staff.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They didn't change the "one size," and impose it on boys; they expanded the sizes.

Huffington Post

But conversely, if they don't want it, no one can presume to impose it on them".

Independent

"They can have their sacredness, but they cannot impose it on anyone else," he said, adding that no one "is under any obligation to respect this sacredness".

Vice

And to impose it on the reader.

The New Yorker

I can't impose it on the people against their will".

The Guardian

"I don't impose it on anybody else," he says.

Independent

They close themselves up in 'their truth' and try to impose it on others".

The New York Times

Courage to impose it on the industry had long been depleted.

The New York Times

"I just refuse to impose it on others, unlike my friend here the Congressman," he said.

The New York Times

The plan's merits aside, it would certainly be unethical for you to impose it on her.

The New York Times - Magazine

But I refuse to impose it on equally devout Christians and Muslims and Jews.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "impose it on", consider the power dynamic between the subject and object. Ensure the context justifies the forceful nature of the action.

Common error

Avoid using "impose it on" when a more neutral term like "apply it to" would be more appropriate. Overusing it can create an unnecessarily adversarial tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impose it on" functions as a verb phrase, describing the action of enforcing or inflicting something upon someone or something. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from regulations to personal beliefs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "impose it on" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies enforcing something upon someone. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's most commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific and formal business contexts. While versatile, it's important to be mindful of the connotations of forcefulness and consider whether a more neutral term might be more appropriate. Remember to evaluate the context and power dynamics at play when choosing to use "impose it on" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Force it upon

Implies a stronger degree of coercion or resistance from the recipient.

Compel one to

Similar to "force", but may imply legal or moral pressure.

Inflict it upon

Suggests a negative or unpleasant consequence being applied.

Enforce it on

Stresses the authoritative application of a rule or law.

Press it upon

Emphasizes persistent urging or insistence.

Subject someone to

Indicates that someone must endure or experience something.

Obligate one to

Focuses on creating a duty or requirement.

Dictate it to

Implies absolute control and lack of negotiation.

Require somebody to accept

Highlights the lack of choice in accepting something.

Apply it to

A more neutral term for putting something into effect or operation.

FAQs

How can I use "impose it on" in a sentence?

The phrase "impose it on" is used to describe the act of forcing something onto someone or something. For example, "The company decided to impose it on all employees".

What can I say instead of "impose it on"?

You can use alternatives like "force it upon", "enforce it on", or "apply it to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "impose it on" or "impose it upon"?

"Impose it on" and "impose it upon" are both grammatically correct and have virtually the same meaning. The choice between them is often a matter of style, with "impose it on" being more common in contemporary usage.

What's the difference between "impose it on" and "suggest it to"?

"Impose it on" implies a lack of choice or agreement, while "suggest it to" indicates a recommendation that can be refused. Imposing involves authority or power, whereas suggesting is simply offering an idea.