Impression: meaning, definitions and examples

🤔

Add to dictionary

impression

[ɪmˈprɛʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

first

An idea, feeling, or opinion about something or someone, especially one formed without conscious thought or on the basis of little evidence.

Synonyms

belief, notion, perception.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
impression	An initial feeling or thought about someone or something, often formed quickly and based on limited information. My first impression of the city was very positive. He made a good impression on his boss during the interview.
notion	A general or vague understanding or belief, often used when the understanding is not based on evidence or deep consideration. She rejected the notion that success is only measured by wealth. He has this romantic notion of traveling around the world.
belief	A conviction or acceptance that something is true or real, often without needing proof or evidence. She has a strong belief in the power of education. Many people hold the belief that kindness is fundamental to human nature.
perception	The way one considers or understands something, typically based on sensory input, personal experiences, or biases. Often subjective and can vary greatly among individuals. Her perception of the painting was very different from mine. The perception of risk in the market has increased lately.

Examples of usage

He had the impression that he was talking to a very important person.
My first impression of the new city was that it was very lively and welcoming.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

second

A mark impressed on a surface.

Synonyms

imprint, mark, stamp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
impression	Used when talking about a mark or indentation left by pressing an object onto a surface. The clay showed the impression of the artist's thumb. The seal left a clear impression in the wax.
mark	General term for any visible sign, spot, or line on a surface. Can be neutral or have a slightly negative connotation if referring to a flaw or blemish. The table had marks from years of use. She got a high mark on her exam.
stamp	Used to refer to a mark made by pressing a design, symbol, or text onto something using an inked pad or other medium, commonly associated with official or decorative purposes. The passport had a stamp from every country she visited. He stamped the letter with the company seal.
imprint	Refers to a mark or pattern left on a surface by pressure or physical contact, often more permanent or detailed than an impression. The sculpture bore the clear imprint of the artist's tools. Her memories of childhood were imprinted deeply in her mind.

Examples of usage

She left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
The artist made an impression of his hand in the wet clay.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

third

The act of impressing or the state of being impressed.

Synonyms

effect, impact, influence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
impression	Use 'impression' when referring to the overall feeling or opinion someone has about something or someone, typically after a brief encounter or experience. Her welcoming smile left a positive impression on the new employee. The first impression of the city was overwhelming.
impact	Use 'impact' when talking about a strong influence or a significant change caused by something. It often has a more dramatic or forceful connotation. The hurricane had a devastating impact on the coastal community. Her speech had a huge impact on the audience.
effect	Use 'effect' to describe a change that has occurred as a result of an action or cause. It often relates to outcomes in various situations. The new law had a significant effect on the economy. The medication had an immediate effect on the patient's condition.
influence	Use 'influence' when referring to the power to affect or alter someone's or something’s behavior, development, or thinking, usually subtly or gradually. Her mentor's guidance had a profound influence on her career choices. Peer pressure can have a strong influence on teenagers.

Examples of usage

The impression of the seal on the document was clear and precise.
The speaker left a strong impression on the audience.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'impressionem,' meaning 'a pressing into,' which highlights how ideas can leave marks on our thoughts.
In Middle English, it referred to the effect made by an image or thought, showing how feelings can be shaped by momentary experiences.

Psychology

The concept of 'first impressions' is critical; studies show people form judgments about others within the first few seconds of meeting them.
Priming is a psychological effect where exposure to one stimulus influences the response to another, reflecting how earlier experiences create lasting impressions on our actions and decisions.

Art and Literature

Artists often aim to create a lasting impression with their work, influencing how viewers perceive emotions and ideas.
In literature, authors use descriptions to create vivid impressions of characters and settings, impacting readers' imaginations.

Pop Culture

Impressionist artists like Claude Monet created pieces that emphasized light and color, leaving a distinct mark on the art world of the late 19th century.
TV shows often feature comedic impressions of celebrities, showcasing how mimicking someone's speech and mannerisms can create funny or memorable moments.

Communications

Effective communication is often about creating a good impression; being clear and engaging can lead to better understanding and relationships.
Non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, significantly contribute to the impression we make on others.

Translations

Translations of the word "impression" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impressão

🇮🇳 प्रभाव

🇩🇪 Eindruck

🇮🇩 kesan

🇺🇦 враження

🇵🇱 wrażenie

🇯🇵 印象 (いんしょう)

🇫🇷 impression

🇪🇸 impresión

🇹🇷 izlenim

🇰🇷 인상 (insang)

🇸🇦 انطباع

🇨🇿 dojem

🇸🇰 dojem

🇨🇳 印象 (yìnxiàng)

🇸🇮 vtis

🇮🇸 far

🇰🇿 әсер

🇬🇪 შთაბეჭდილება (štabeč'dileba)

🇦🇿 təəssürat

🇲🇽 impresión

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,446, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

...
2443 huge
2444 volumes
2445 prepare
2446 impression
2447 supporting
2448 worker
2449 afraid
...