imposing

/ɪmˈpəʊzɪŋ/ (bre, ipa) · /ɪmˈpəʊzɪŋ/ (ame, ipa) · /im-ˈpō-ziŋ/ (ame, mw)

imposing — adjective

  • imposingpositive
  • more imposingcomparative
  • most imposingsuperlative

1. having a look that makes people stop and pay attention — usually because somethi

1.形容詞B2
釋義

having a look that makes people stop and pay attention — usually because something is very large, grand, or gives a feeling of power and importance

例句

The imposing stone courthouse stood at the centre of the old town.

imposing + building noun (courthouse/mansion/tower)

Dr. Okonkwo's imposing presence made the students sit up straight when he entered the room.

imposing presence — used for a person's aura

同義詞
  • impressive

    more general; does not necessarily imply large size — a small object can be impressive

  • grand

    emphasises scale, luxury, or splendour rather than the effect on the viewer

  • majestic

    more poetic and formal; often used for natural scenery or ceremonial occasions

  • stately

    suggests slow, dignified movement or arrangement; common for buildings, processions, or people's bearing

反義詞
  • unimposing

    direct antonym; not commanding attention or admiration

  • humble

    suggests modesty and lack of pretension in appearance

文法句型

imposing + noun (building/person/presence)

be + imposing

用法筆記

Often used before nouns describing buildings, natural features, or a person's physical presence or demeanour. Can be applied to size, height, or an intangible quality such as voice or personality.

常見錯誤

❌The building was very imposing and big.
✅The building was imposing with its tall columns and grand entrance.
💡'Imposing' already conveys largeness; avoid adding 'big' as a separate adjective.
❌She is an imposing teacher who gives us a lot of homework.
✅She is an imposing teacher who commands respect the moment she walks in.
💡'Imposing' describes appearance and presence, not strictness or workload.