opgelegd

Opgelegd is a Dutch term used as both a past participle of the verb opleggen and as an adjective. It means “imposed” or “laid down” and describes rules, obligations, penalties, or conditions that have been mandated by an authority.

Etymology: The word comes from opleggen (to impose). The prefix op- meaning “on” or “upon” combined with leggen “to lay” conveys the sense of laying something down onto someone or something.

Usage: Opgelegd is used in legal, administrative, and organizational contexts to indicate measures that are not voluntary. Examples include: De regels zijn door de overheid opgelegd (The rules have been imposed by the government). Het opgelegde bedrag bedraagt 100 euro (The imposed/required amount is 100 euros). Grammatically, it can function as a predicative adjective (is opgelegd) or as an attributive adjective in definite noun phrases, where it takes an -e ending: het opgelegde bedrag.

Related terms: The related noun oplegging refers to the act of imposing, while the verb opleggen means “to impose.” Opgelegd is often contrasted with voluntary or agreed-upon arrangements, highlighting the authoritative or mandatory character of the measure.

Context and nuance: In policy, law, and regulation, opgeslegd typically signals formal authority and enforcement. It does not necessarily imply harshness; a measure can be strictly imposed yet neutral in tone, such as administrative deadlines or conditions attached to permits.

In sum, opgelegd describes something that has been mandated by an authority, distinguishing imposed requirements from voluntary actions in Dutch usage.