force someone to do something difficult; impose an unreasonable demand
Meanings
1 sense · 5 examplesidiom
force someone to do something they find difficult or unwilling to do; impose an unreasonable demand
neutralUsed to criticize someone for making an unreasonable request or forcing another person into an awkward or impossible situation. It implies a lack of consideration for the other person's feelings or capabilities.
He knows I'm allergic to alcohol, but insists I finish my drink in one go. This is truly forcing someone to do the impossible.
Asking a tone-deaf person to enter a singing competition, isn't that imposing an unreasonable demand?
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Manager, please don't force an impossible task; this project needs far more time than the deadline you've given.
I'm happy to help, but asking me to cook the books is forcing me to do something I find unacceptable.
He can't sing opera, yet you insist he does. Isn't that asking for the impossible?