imposición
“imposición” means “imposition” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
imposition
Also: enforcement, taxation
📝 In Action
No me gusta la imposición de estas reglas sin hablar antes.
B1I don't like the imposition of these rules without talking first.
La imposición de la ley es fundamental para el orden público.
B2The enforcement of the law is fundamental for public order.
Muchos ciudadanos protestan por la alta imposición tributaria.
C1Many citizens are protesting against high taxation levels.
laying on
Also: bestowal
📝 In Action
El obispo realizó la imposición de manos.
C2The bishop performed the laying on of hands.
Vimos la imposición de medallas a los ganadores.
B2We saw the bestowing of medals upon the winners.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: imposición
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the most common meaning of 'imposición'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'impositio', which comes from 'imponere' (to put upon). It is a combination of 'in-' (into/upon) and 'ponere' (to place or put).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'imposición' always mean something bad?
Not necessarily, though it often feels negative because it implies a lack of choice. However, in legal or religious contexts, it is a neutral description of an act (like enforcing a law or performing a ritual).
Is 'imposición' related to the word 'impuesto' (tax)?
Yes! An 'impuesto' is a tax (the thing itself), while 'imposición' is the act of levying or charging that tax.
What verb goes with 'imposición'?
The most common verb related to it is 'imponer' (to impose).

