was imposed

USAGE SUMMARY

"was imposed" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used as the past tense of the verb "impose" which means to establish a rule or law. For example: A strict curfew was imposed on the town after the disaster.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The ban was imposed anyway.

The New York Times

ate of emergency was imposed.

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Martial law was imposed.

The New York Times - Magazine

A curfew was imposed.

The New York Times

The Latin rite was imposed in churches.

The Economist

A state of emergency was imposed.

The Economist

No other penalty was imposed.

The Guardian

Their authority was imposed gradually.

The Guardian - Sport

A dusk-to-dawn curfew was imposed.

The New York Times

No fine was imposed on the company.

The New York Times

The rule was imposed March 29.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was imposed", ensure the subject clearly indicates what is being enforced, such as "A curfew was imposed" or "New regulations were imposed".

Common error

Avoid using "was imposed" without specifying who or what is doing the imposing. For example, instead of "The rule was imposed", specify "The government imposed the rule" or "The rule was imposed by the government" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was imposed" functions as the passive voice of the verb "impose". It describes an action where a rule, restriction, or burden is officially established or applied by an authority. As Ludwig AI states, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "was imposed" is a versatile passive construction indicating the official establishment or application of a rule, law, or restriction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted. Its usage spans various contexts, from news reporting to scientific publications, making it a common phrase in formal and neutral registers. When using "was imposed", clarity is crucial; specify what is being imposed and, if relevant, by whom. While "was enforced" and "was applied" serve as close alternatives, they carry slightly different nuances related to the action's emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was enforced

Focuses on the active enforcement of a rule or law, similar to imposing but emphasizes the action taken to ensure compliance.

was applied

Highlights the act of putting a rule or law into effect, suggesting a practical implementation.

was established

Emphasizes the creation or setting up of a rule or system, focusing on its foundation.

was mandated

Indicates a formal requirement or order, emphasizing the compulsory nature of the action.

was decreed

Suggests an official order or proclamation, often with a sense of authority and finality.

was levied

Specifically refers to the imposition of a tax, fee, or fine.

was inflicted

Implies the causing of something unpleasant or painful, such as a penalty or suffering.

was dictated

Highlights the action of prescribing or ordering authoritatively.

was prescribed

Emphasizes the specified or recommended course of action, often in a medical context but not limited to it.

was exacted

Highlights the demanding and obtaining something, often by force or authority.

FAQs

How can I use "was imposed" in a sentence?

The phrase "was imposed" is used to indicate that a rule, law, or restriction has been officially established or applied. For example, "A strict curfew "was imposed" on the city" or "New taxes "were imposed" on imported goods".

What are some alternatives to "was imposed"?

You can use alternatives like "was enforced", "was applied", or "was established" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use the active or passive voice when describing something that was imposed?

Using the active voice (e.g., "The government imposed the tax") is often clearer and more direct. However, the passive voice ("The tax was imposed") is suitable when the actor is unknown or less important than the action itself.

What's the difference between "was imposed" and "was implemented"?

"Was imposed" implies a more authoritative or forceful establishment of something, while "was implemented" suggests a practical execution or carrying out of a plan or policy.