imposing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "imposing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is grand, impressive, or commanding attention, often in a way that evokes admiration or respect. Example: "The imposing architecture of the cathedral left visitors in awe as they entered the building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Downing Street defended its decision to allow a free vote for the second reading while imposing a three-line whip on the programme motion.

The Guardian

They are split by dizzying ravines, which are, in turn, often overhung with imposing bulwarks of rock.

The Guardian - Travel

But the imposing brickwork and gloomy galleries put off modern audiences, according to Maria Balshaw, who runs the gallery.

The Guardian

"Germany is looking to increase its power, imposing solutions that go well in Germany," wrote Alessandro Gimenez.

The Guardian

But this quaint resort is beginning to brighten up, with the grand Hôtel de la Plage now transformed into La Fabrique, a funky lounge bar and restaurant whose DJ gets guests dancing on the waterside terrace, while a year ago, the elegant Marie Collet, turned the top floor of her imposing house into a two-room B&B.

The Guardian - Travel

German industry is lobbying strongly against imposing sanctions on Russia.

The Guardian

Good news, Australian royalists: the national capital's most imposing, though perhaps least aesthetic, monument, the King George V memorial, is undergoing a facelift.

The Guardian

I haven't fulfilled my dreams = bad / I have an imposing bosom = good.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Western governments reviled him and were united in imposing rigorous political and economic sanctions against Poland.

The Guardian

Back within the well-shuttered Carrera and gathering in its imposing reception area sheathed in black glass, Pinochet's many moneyed supporters toasted him with champagne, and his three fellow members of the junta from the navy, air force and gendarmerie.

The Guardian

In a last-ditch attempt to frustrate the bill, Lord Harries, who chairs the Commission on Civil Society and Democratic Engagement representing more than 100 groups, warned it would be a "bureaucratic nightmare" and accused ministers of imposing a "huge regulatory burden on campaigning groups".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "imposing" to describe structures, figures, or situations that command attention due to size, grandeur, or authority. It is most effective when the subject evokes a sense of awe or respect.

Common error

Avoid using "imposing" when a simpler adjective like "large" or "significant" would suffice. Overuse can diminish the impact of the word, particularly in contexts where the grandeur isn't genuinely present.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "imposing" functions primarily to attribute a quality of grandeur, size, or authority to a noun. It indicates that the subject commands attention and respect due to its appearance or presence. Ludwig AI confirms the correct and usable nature of this descriptor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Travel

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "imposing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective to describe something grand, impressive, or commanding. Ludwig AI confirms this assessment, and the examples show its common usage across contexts like news and travel writing. While generally neutral, it can skew formal based on context. When using "imposing", ensure it aptly describes the subject’s grandeur or authority to avoid diluting its impact. Consider alternatives like "impressive" or "majestic" to fine-tune the specific nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impressive

A direct synonym, focusing on the quality of eliciting admiration.

grand

Emphasizes the scale and magnificence of the subject.

majestic

Highlights the stateliness and dignity.

commanding

Focuses on the power and authority conveyed.

formidable

Stresses the ability to inspire fear or respect through size or power.

striking

Highlights the noticeable and attention-grabbing nature.

towering

Emphasizes height and dominance.

stately

Focuses on the dignified and elegant appearance.

august

Implies a sense of reverence and respect.

overwhelming

Highlights the intense effect on observers.

FAQs

How can I use "imposing" in a sentence?

You can use "imposing" to describe something that is impressive or commanding, such as "The castle had an "imposing" facade" or "He was an "imposing" figure with a booming voice".

What words can I use instead of "imposing"?

Alternatives include "impressive", "grand", "majestic", or "commanding" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "imposing" to describe a person's character?

Yes, "imposing" can describe a person, especially their physical presence or the force of their personality. For instance, "She had an "imposing" demeanor that commanded respect".

What is the difference between "imposing" and "impressive"?

"Imposing" often suggests something that is large, grand, or authoritative, while "impressive" simply means something that evokes admiration. An "imposing" building might also be "impressive", but something can be "impressive" without being particularly large or "imposing".