imponer
verbCEFR B2
What does “imponer” mean in English?
to impose, to enforce
to impose, to enforce (imponer sanciones/restricciones — use authority to force acceptance of something)
Example sentences
El gobierno impuso nuevas restricciones al movimiento de capitales para estabilizar la moneda nacional.
The government imposed new restrictions on capital movement to stabilise the national currency.
El juez impuso una multa de cien mil euros a la empresa por incumplir la normativa medioambiental.
The judge imposed a fine of one hundred thousand euros on the company for breaching environmental regulations.
A pesar de las presiones, su postura se impuso finalmente en la negociación gracias a la solidez de sus argumentos.
Despite the pressure, his position ultimately prevailed in the negotiation thanks to the strength of his arguments.
How to use it
Imponer means 'to impose', 'to enforce', or 'to establish by authority'. Like poner, it is irregular: yo impongo. Structure: imponer algo a alguien (impose something on someone), imponer sanciones/restricciones/normas. The reflexive imponerse means 'to prevail' or 'to assert oneself': al final, el sentido común se impuso (in the end, common sense prevailed). At B2, the policy, legal, and power-dynamic senses are most important.
Common mistake
Imponer (impose — use authority to force acceptance) must not be confused with proponer (propose — suggest for consideration). 'Imponer' implies power and coercion; 'proponer' implies dialogue and consent. Yo impongo is irregular — don't write *yo imponfo.