# imposition

/ˌɪmpəˈzɪʃən/ (US) · /ɪmpəzˈɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/imposition
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

an unfair or annoying request that takes up someone's time or effort. You use this when someone asks you for a favor that feels like a burden.

For teachers: the act of forcing an unwelcome burden or requirement on someone. Often refers to an unfair demand on one's time or resources.

## Examples

- I hope my staying here isn't a big imposition.
- She felt that asking her neighbor to drive her to the airport at 4 a.m. was too much of an imposition.
- The new administrative requirements were seen as a significant imposition by the staff, who were already struggling to meet their primary research deadlines.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with the verb 'to be' and often followed by the preposition 'on' or 'upon'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.