Word
imposing
Phoneticsim·pos·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ˌɪmˈpoʊzɪŋ/
UK/ɪmpˈəʊzɪŋ/
Definitions
01impressive and grand
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. looking very big, powerful, or important in a way that commands respect.
adj. grand and impressive in appearance, size, or manner; often suggests a sense of authority or stateliness.
“The bank was an imposing building with tall stone columns and heavy doors.”
“The cathedral's imposing facade dominated the town square, reminding every visitor of the city's historical wealth and influence.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02forcing something on others
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. the act of forcing a rule, tax, or your own ideas on other people.
v. the present participle of 'impose', referring to the act of officially forcing a rule or system to be obeyed.
“The government is imposing new taxes on luxury goods next month.”
“By imposing such strict deadlines on the creative team, the manager inadvertently stifled the very innovation he was trying to encourage.”
Usage
Often used with the preposition 'on' or 'upon'.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“If a deal isn’t reached, then at midnight, the United States would be imposing 50% tariffs on $28 billion of Canadian goods, everything from hockey sticks to cement, alcohol to honey.” “Born in Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, then part of Yugoslavia, the imposing former centre-half grew up in Metkovic in Croatia.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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