imponer
“imponer” means “to impose” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to impose
Also: to enforce, to dictate
📝 In Action
El gobierno quiere imponer un nuevo impuesto al tabaco.
B1The government wants to impose a new tax on tobacco.
No intentes imponer tus ideas a los demás.
B1Don't try to force your ideas on others.
El director impuso una disciplina muy estricta.
B2The director enforced very strict discipline.
to be imposing
Also: to command respect, to be intimidating
📝 In Action
Su altura y su voz profunda imponen mucho.
B2His height and deep voice are very imposing.
Este estadio lleno de gente impone respeto.
B2This stadium full of people commands respect.
A veces, hablar en público impone.
C1Sometimes, public speaking is intimidating.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: imponer
Question 1 of 3
Which form of 'imponer' is correct in the past for 'Yo'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'imponere', which is made of 'in' (into/upon) and 'ponere' (to put). It literally means 'to put something upon' something else.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'imponer' always a bad thing?
Not always. While it often means forcing something (negative), it can also mean being impressively authoritative or commanding respect (positive).
What is the difference between 'poner' and 'imponer'?
'Poner' simply means 'to put'. 'Imponer' adds the idea of power, authority, or forcing something onto someone.
Does it have a reflexive form?
Yes! 'Imponerse' means 'to prevail' or 'to win out' (e.g., 'Justice prevailed' = 'La justicia se impuso').