is imposed on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is imposed on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is enforced or applied to someone or something, often in a context of rules, regulations, or burdens. Example: "The new tax policy is imposed on all businesses operating within the city limits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Duality is imposed on this one reality by maya, or the power of illusion-producing ignorance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At one point her image is imposed on that of Saddam Hussein.

The New York Times - Arts

Close to tears, he said: "No one can stand it, but it is imposed on us.

The New York Times

The burden of judgment is imposed on the reader.

The New Yorker

One day the prohibition is imposed on us.

The New York Times

At this point, serial order is imposed on the utterance.

Handbook of Psycholinguistics

The tax is imposed on imported fuels when they enter the country.

Columbia University

Their biggest shield is an oath of secrecy that is imposed on followers.

The Economist

Thereafter, a virtual gag is imposed on the press until the case comes to trial.

The Economist

And, secondly, they reduce the huge management burden that is imposed on a single regulator.

The Economist

No order or design is imposed on the economy from the top down.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is imposed on", ensure that the subject receiving the action is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what exactly is being imposed and on whom.

Common error

Avoid using "is imposed on" excessively in writing, as it can lead to a passive voice construction that weakens the impact of your message. Consider rephrasing the sentence in active voice for a more direct and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is imposed on" functions primarily as a passive construction, indicating that a burden, rule, or obligation is being applied by an external force. As Ludwig AI indicates, this construction highlights the receiver of the action rather than the actor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is imposed on" is a common passive construction used to describe the enforcement of a rule, burden, or obligation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and widespread across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. While alternatives exist, such as "is subjected to" or "is levied on", the specific choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey. It's also important to avoid overuse of the passive voice, as it can weaken your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is enforced upon

Highlights the act of making sure a rule or law is followed.

is forced upon

Stresses the lack of choice or consent in accepting something.

is subjected to

Indicates that someone or something is forced to experience a particular treatment or condition.

is placed upon

Focuses on the action of placing something, often a burden or requirement, onto someone or something.

is thrust upon

Conveys a sense of something being suddenly and unexpectedly imposed.

is inflicted upon

Emphasizes a negative or harmful effect that is being forced upon someone or something.

is levied on

Specifically used in the context of taxes, fines, or other charges being applied.

is decreed for

Used when a formal order or decision is officially issued.

is dictated to

Suggests that someone or something is being told what to do in an authoritative manner.

is saddled with

Implies that someone or something is burdened with an unwanted responsibility or problem.

FAQs

How can I use "is imposed on" in a sentence?

You can use "is imposed on" to indicate that a rule, law, or obligation is being enforced or applied to someone or something. For example, "A curfew "is imposed on" residents after 10 PM."

What are some alternatives to "is imposed on"?

Alternatives to "is imposed on" include "is subjected to", "is levied on", or "is enforced upon", depending on the specific context. For instance, you could say "The tax "is levied on" imported goods."

Which is correct, "is imposed on" or "is imposed upon"?

"Is imposed on" and "is imposed upon" are both grammatically correct, but "is imposed on" is more commonly used in contemporary English. While "is imposed upon" is not incorrect, it may sound slightly more formal or old-fashioned.

What's the difference between "is imposed on" and "is inflicted on"?

While both phrases indicate something being applied to someone or something, "is imposed on" is generally neutral and suggests enforcement, whereas "is inflicted on" carries a negative connotation, implying harm or suffering.