levy

word

/ˈɫɛvi/
/lˈɛvi/

Definition

To officially demand and collect a tax, fee, or fine. Can also refer to the act of charging or collecting money for a specific purpose through authority.

Usage & Nuances

'Levy' is formal and often used in legal, governmental, or financial contexts. Common collocations: 'levy a tax', 'levy a fine', 'levy tariffs'. As a verb, it requires an object (what is being collected). Sometimes used as a noun: 'a levy on imports'.

Example Sentences

Did they really levy another tax this year? That’s tough for small businesses.

natural

The government decided to levy a new tax on sugar.

basic

They levy fines on people who litter in the park.

basic

The council plans to levy a fee for parking downtown.

basic

Whenever there’s a budget shortfall, they just levy more fees.

natural

The city’s new levy on plastic bags has really cut down on waste.

natural