imposed from outside

USAGE SUMMARY

'imposed from outside' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is imposed on a group, organization, or country by a person or persons from outside of it. For example, "The government imposed a new set of regulations from outside the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Targets cannot be imposed from outside.

The Guardian - Opinion

Can it ever be imposed from outside?

The Guardian - Books

However, deep democracy cannot be imposed from outside.

The New York Times

This is something that is being imposed from outside.

The New York Times

Second, that democracy cannot quickly be imposed from outside.

The Guardian

Unfortunately, democracy isn't something that can be "imposed" from outside.

The New York Times

We don't want anything imposed from outside," he said.

The Guardian

None ever did in the Muslim part, unless imposed from outside.

The Economist

Again, change had effectively been imposed from outside, rather than arising from internal resolve.

The New Yorker

These movements can't be willed into existence or imposed from outside.

The New Yorker

Grand gestures are repeatedly imposed from outside, whose aims are at once charitable and controlling.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "imposed from outside", ensure clarity about who or what is doing the imposing and on whom or what it is being imposed. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "imposed from outside" excessively in passive constructions. Active voice often provides clearer and more direct communication. For example, instead of "The rules were imposed from outside", consider "External regulators imposed the rules".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "imposed from outside" functions as a descriptor, modifying a noun or concept to indicate that it originates from an external source. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples show it frequently describes policies, regulations, or influences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "imposed from outside" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as verified by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to describe something originating from an external source, often implying a lack of internal control or autonomy. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for objective discussions. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the imposer and the recipient of the imposition. Be mindful of passive voice overuse to maintain clear and direct communication. Consider alternatives such as "externally enforced" or "mandated by external entities" for specific connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imposed externally

Reorders the words but maintains the original meaning, with a slightly more formal tone.

externally enforced

Focuses on the enforcement aspect rather than the imposition, implying a system or authority that ensures compliance.

mandated by external entities

Highlights the formal authorization or requirement set by external bodies.

prescribed by external authorities

Similar to 'mandated', but with a focus on rules or guidelines being set.

dictated by external forces

Emphasizes the controlling aspect of external factors, suggesting a lack of autonomy.

compelled by external powers

Highlights the aspect of being forced or obliged by outside powers.

forced upon from without

Adds a sense of coercion or unwanted imposition from an external source.

ordained by external decree

Suggests a formal and authoritative command originating externally.

driven by outside influence

Shifts the focus to the influence exerted, rather than the act of imposing.

originated from outside sources

Emphasizes the origin or source of something being external, rather than its imposition.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "imposed from outside" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "dictated by external forces" or "mandated by external entities", which emphasize authority and compliance.

What's the difference between "imposed from outside" and "imposed from above"?

"Imposed from outside" generally refers to external entities or influences, while "imposed from above" typically indicates a hierarchical structure where authority is exerted from a higher level within the same system.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "imposed from outside"?

The phrase is appropriate when discussing regulations, rules, or changes that are implemented by an external body or influence, particularly in political, economic, or social contexts. It's often used when discussing interventions or policies that are not internally generated.

Is "imposed from outside" always negative in connotation?

While often used in contexts where external imposition is viewed critically, the phrase itself isn't inherently negative. Its connotation depends on the specific context and the perceived legitimacy and impact of the imposition. Sometimes, it may be seen as necessary or even beneficial.