imponer (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/im.poˈneɾ/

Translation Options into English

• to impose
• to enforce
• to inflict
• to lay down

Meaning and Usage

The verb "imponer" in Spanish refers to the act of enforcing, demanding, or placing a requirement upon someone or something. It can be used in various contexts, such as imposing rules, taxes, sanctions, or opinions. In everyday use, it frequently appears in both written and oral communication but leans more towards formal or legal contexts.

Frequency of Use

"Imponer" is commonly used in both spoken and written Spanish, particularly in legal and academic domains where rules and regulations are discussed.

Example Sentences

1. Es necesario imponer nuevas normas de seguridad en el trabajo.
   It is necessary to impose new safety regulations at work.

2. El gobierno decidió imponer un impuesto sobre las grandes fortunas.
   The government decided to impose a tax on large fortunes.

3. Es injusto imponer decisiones sin consultar a todas las partes.
   It is unfair to impose decisions without consulting all parties.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "imponer" is not as commonly featured in idiomatic expressions, it does appear in certain contexts where it implies authority or enforcement.

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Expressions

1. Imponer la autoridad no siempre es la mejor solución.
   Imposing authority is not always the best solution.

2. Al imponer su visión, no consideró las opiniones de los demás.
   By imposing his vision, he did not consider the opinions of others.

3. Imponer condiciones a la negociación puede llevar a un conflicto.
   Imposing conditions on the negotiation can lead to a conflict.

4. Es importante no imponer nuestra cultura a otros.
   It is important not to impose our culture on others.

5. A veces, es mejor escuchar antes de imponer una opinión.
   Sometimes, it is better to listen before imposing an opinion.

Etymology

The word "imponer" originates from Latin "imponere," which is a combination of "in-" (in, on) and "ponere" (to place, to put). This etymology reflects the essence of the verb, as it conveys the action of placing something upon someone or something.

Synonyms

• Forzar (to force)
• Exigir (to demand)
• Aplicar (to apply)

Antonyms

• Levantar (to lift)
• Retirar (to remove)
• Suprimir (to suppress)

In conclusion, "imponer" is a versatile verb widely used in various contexts, especially in legal and formal spheres, while also having significant metaphorical implications in idiomatic expressions.