Top 26 Slang For Impose – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to asserting authority or making a strong impression, having the right slang can make all the difference. Impose may seem like a simple word, but there’s a whole world of trendy phrases and terms out there that can help you express yourself with flair. Let us guide you through the coolest and most current slang for imposing your presence in any situation. Get ready to level up your language game and leave a lasting impact!

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1. Lay it on thick

This phrase means to exaggerate or overstate something, usually in order to make a point or persuade someone. It can also refer to someone being overly affectionate or flattery.

For example, “She really laid it on thick when she complimented his cooking skills.”
A person might say, “Don’t lay it on too thick when you apologize, just be sincere.”
In a sales pitch, a person might say, “If you want to close the deal, lay it on thick and highlight all the benefits.”

2. Drop the hammer

This phrase means to take decisive action or impose strict measures, often in a forceful or authoritative manner. It can also refer to someone making a final decision or delivering a harsh punishment.

For instance, “The boss dropped the hammer and fired the employee for repeated tardiness.”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “It’s time to drop the hammer and show the opponents what we’re capable of.”
A parent might say, “If you don’t clean your room, I’ll drop the hammer and take away your video games.”

3. Throw one’s weight around

This phrase means to assert one’s authority or influence, often in a domineering or aggressive manner. It can also refer to someone using their power or status to intimidate others.

For example, “The manager likes to throw his weight around and make all the decisions.”
In a workplace setting, a coworker might say, “Don’t let him throw his weight around and push you around.”
A person might say, “I won’t let anyone throw their weight around and tell me what to do.”

4. Push one’s luck

This phrase means to take unnecessary risks or test one’s good fortune, often by continuing to do something that is already risky or has been successful up to a point. It can also refer to someone trying to get more than they already have.

For instance, “He’s been winning at the casino all night, but if he keeps pushing his luck, he might lose it all.”
A person might say, “You’ve already gotten away with breaking the rules once, don’t push your luck.”
In a negotiation, one party might say, “I think they’re pushing their luck by asking for even more concessions.”

5. Call the shots

This phrase means to be in control or make the decisions, often in a situation where others are looking to you for guidance or leadership. It can also refer to someone having the authority to make important decisions.

For example, “She’s the one who calls the shots around here, so we have to follow her lead.”
In a team project, a leader might say, “I’ll be the one to call the shots and assign tasks.”
A person might say, “If you want to succeed, you have to be willing to take charge and call the shots.”

6. Put the squeeze on

This phrase means to apply pressure or force someone to do something they may not want to do.

For example, “The boss put the squeeze on the employees to finish the project by the end of the week.”
In a negotiation, one party might say, “I’m going to put the squeeze on them and get the best deal.”
A parent might use this phrase with their child, saying, “I’m going to put the squeeze on you to clean your room.”

7. Make waves

To “make waves” means to cause trouble or stir up controversy in a situation or organization.

For instance, “The new employee made waves by challenging the established way of doing things.”
In a political context, a candidate might promise to “make waves” and challenge the status quo.
A student might be encouraged to “make waves” and speak up for their rights.

8. Crack the whip

This phrase means to exert control or pressure over someone, typically in a strict or demanding manner.

For example, “The coach cracked the whip and pushed the team to train harder.”
In a work setting, a supervisor might say, “I need to crack the whip and make sure everyone meets their deadlines.”
A parent might use this phrase with their child, saying, “I’m going to crack the whip and make sure you finish your homework.”

9. Bear down on

To “bear down on” means to apply pressure or focus on a task, often with determination or intensity.

For instance, “The deadline is approaching, so we need to bear down on our work.”
In a sports context, a coach might tell their team to “bear down” and give their best effort.
A student might be advised to “bear down” and study hard for an upcoming exam.

10. Lay down the law

This phrase means to establish and enforce rules or expectations in a strict or authoritative manner.

For example, “The new manager laid down the law and implemented stricter policies.”
In a household, a parent might lay down the law and set clear expectations for behavior.
In a school setting, a teacher might lay down the law and enforce classroom rules.

11. Flex one’s muscles

To assert one’s strength or authority in a situation.

For example, “The CEO flexed his muscles and fired the entire department.”
In a negotiation, someone might say, “I’m going to flex my muscles and demand a higher salary.”
A politician might flex their muscles by passing a controversial law.

12. Put the screws on

To exert pressure or force on someone to get what you want.

For instance, “The boss put the screws on the employees to meet the deadline.”
In a difficult situation, someone might say, “I need to put the screws on my landlord to fix the plumbing.”
A detective might put the screws on a suspect during an interrogation.

13. Make one’s mark

To establish oneself or leave a significant impact on a situation or group.

For example, “The new employee made their mark by exceeding expectations.”
A musician might say, “I want to make my mark on the music industry.”
Someone starting a business might strive to make their mark in the market.

14. Assert one’s dominance

To display or establish one’s power or authority over others.

For instance, “The alpha wolf asserted its dominance over the pack.”
In a competitive sport, a player might assert their dominance by consistently outperforming their opponents.
A manager might assert their dominance by making all the important decisions.

15. Set the tone

To establish the overall mood or atmosphere of a situation or event.

For example, “The host’s welcoming speech set the tone for the rest of the evening.”
In a meeting, someone might say, “Let’s start with a positive attitude to set the tone.”
A teacher might set the tone for a classroom by creating a structured and inclusive environment.

16. Demand obedience

This phrase is used to describe the act of commanding or requiring someone to obey or follow instructions without question. It implies a level of authority or power over others.

For example, a strict teacher might say, “I demand obedience in my classroom. There will be no talking out of turn.”
In a military setting, a commanding officer might say, “Soldiers, I demand obedience on the battlefield. Lives depend on it.”
A parent might say to their child, “I demand obedience when I tell you to do your chores.”

17. Enact one’s authority

This phrase refers to the act of using one’s position or authority to impose rules, regulations, or decisions on others. It suggests taking action to establish control or dominance.

For instance, a manager might say, “As the boss, I will enact my authority to implement new policies.”
In a political context, a leader might say, “I will enact my authority to pass this legislation for the betterment of the country.”
A coach might say to their team, “I will enact my authority to discipline any player who violates team rules.”

18. Exercise control

This phrase describes the act of exerting authority or influence over others in order to maintain order or achieve a desired outcome. It implies actively taking charge and making decisions.

For example, a supervisor might say, “I need to exercise control over this project to ensure it stays on track.”
In a relationship, one partner might say, “I have to exercise control over our finances to keep us out of debt.”
A team captain might say, “I will exercise control on the field to lead our team to victory.”

19. Clamp down

This phrase means to take strict measures or actions to suppress or control a situation or behavior. It implies a strong and forceful response to enforce rules or regulations.

For instance, a government might clamp down on protests to maintain order and prevent chaos.
In a workplace, a manager might clamp down on excessive use of personal devices during working hours.
A school might clamp down on bullying by implementing zero-tolerance policies.

20. Rule with an iron fist

This phrase describes a style of leadership characterized by strict control, dominance, and an unwavering adherence to rules. It suggests a leader who governs with absolute power and little tolerance for dissent.

For example, a dictator might rule with an iron fist, suppressing opposition and dissent.
In a company, a CEO might rule with an iron fist, making all decisions without input from others.
A strict parent might be said to rule with an iron fist, imposing strict rules and punishments on their children.

21. Take charge

To take control or leadership in a situation or task.

For example, “I’ll take charge of organizing the event.”
In a group project, someone might say, “Let’s choose a leader who can take charge and keep us on track.”
A manager might tell an employee, “I need you to take charge of this project and ensure its success.”

22. Make a stand

To assert one’s position or beliefs, often in the face of opposition or adversity.

For instance, “I’m going to make a stand against injustice.”
During a protest, individuals might make a stand by holding up signs and chanting slogans.
In a debate, someone might say, “I strongly disagree with your point, and I’m going to make a stand for my position.”

23. Throw one’s weight behind

To support or endorse someone or something, often by using one’s influence or resources.

For example, “The influential celebrity threw their weight behind the charity campaign.”
A politician might throw their weight behind a particular policy or candidate during an election.
In a business decision, a CEO might throw their weight behind a new initiative to drive its success.

24. Have the final say

To make the ultimate decision or have the ultimate authority in a matter.

For instance, “The judge has the final say in this case.”
In a group discussion, someone might say, “Let’s hear everyone’s opinions, but I’ll have the final say.”
A parent might tell their child, “I understand your perspective, but as your parent, I have the final say.”

25. Make one’s presence known

To make oneself noticed or acknowledged in a situation or environment.

For example, “He entered the room and made his presence known with a loud greeting.”
During a meeting, someone might make their presence known by actively participating and sharing ideas.
In a crowded social event, a person might make their presence known by introducing themselves to others and engaging in conversations.

26. Insist on

To strongly demand or require something, often in a persistent or forceful manner.

For example, “She insists on having her own way in everything.”
In a negotiation, one party might insist on certain terms, saying, “We insist on a fair price for our product.”
A parent might insist on their child finishing their homework before going out to play, saying, “I insist on you completing your assignments first.”