Impressive: meaning, definitions and examples

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impressive

 

[ ɪmˈprɛsɪv ]

Adjective
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

describe something

Evoking admiration through size, quality, or skill; grand and imposing.

Synonyms

awe-inspiring, magnificent, remarkable, striking, stunning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impressive

Used when something evokes admiration and respect due to its quality, scale, or effect.

  • The scientist gave an impressive presentation on her latest discoveries.
  • His impressive resume got him the job.
striking

Used when something stands out in a noticeable or exceptional way, often visually.

  • She has a striking resemblance to her mother.
  • The building's design is quite striking.
remarkable

Used for something that is worthy of attention, especially because it is unusual or exceptional.

  • She showed remarkable courage during the crisis.
  • The progress he made in such a short time is remarkable.
awe-inspiring

Used to describe things that are so grand or extraordinary that they fill you with awe.

  • The view from the mountaintop was awe-inspiring.
  • The cathedral's architecture is truly awe-inspiring.
magnificent

Applied to something that is extremely beautiful, elaborate, or grand. It carries a sense of splendor and opulence.

  • The palace interior is magnificent.
  • Her dress looked magnificent at the gala.
stunning

Used for something or someone that is extremely attractive or beautiful; it can also mean very surprising or impressive.

  • The bride looked stunning in her wedding dress.
  • The depth of his knowledge is stunning.

Examples of usage

  • The view from the top of the mountain was truly impressive.
  • Her knowledge of the subject was very impressive.
  • The impressive architecture of the building left me in awe.
Context #2 | Adjective

describing a person

Having the ability to impress the mind; arousing admiration through character or achievement.

Synonyms

charismatic, distinguished, influential, notable, outstanding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impressive

Use when describing something that causes admiration and awe, often because of its size, quality, or skill.

  • The fireworks display was truly impressive.
  • Her presentation was very impressive, earning a standing ovation.
charismatic

Use to describe a person who has a special charm or appeal that attracts others.

  • The charismatic leader inspired thousands with his speeches.
  • She has a charismatic personality that draws people to her.
influential

Use to describe someone or something that has the power to change or affect others.

  • The influential blogger has a significant impact on public opinion.
  • Her theories have been very influential in the field of psychology.
notable

Use when mentioning something or someone worthy of attention or remark, often due to significance or excellence.

  • It’s notable that she graduated at the top of her class.
  • The town has several notable landmarks.
outstanding

Use for something or someone exceptionally good and standing out from the rest.

  • Her performance was outstanding, far better than anyone else’s.
  • He is an outstanding student who excels in all subjects.
distinguished

Use to describe someone well known and respected for their achievements, or something notable for its excellence or importance.

  • The distinguished scientist received a Nobel Prize for his work.
  • He looked distinguished in his tailored suit.

Examples of usage

  • She made an impressive speech at the conference.
  • His impressive resume landed him the job.
  • The impressive young artist won many awards for her work.

Translations

Translations of the word "impressive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impressionante

🇮🇳 प्रभावशाली

🇩🇪 beeindruckend

🇮🇩 mengagumkan

🇺🇦 вражаючий

🇵🇱 imponujący

🇯🇵 印象的な (いんしょうてきな)

🇫🇷 impressionnant

🇪🇸 impresionante

🇹🇷 etkileyici

🇰🇷 인상적인 (insangjeog-in)

🇸🇦 مثير للإعجاب

🇨🇿 působivý

🇸🇰 pôsobivý

🇨🇳 令人印象深刻的 (lìng rén yìnxiàng shēnkè de)

🇸🇮 impresiven

🇮🇸 hrifandi

🇰🇿 әсерлі

🇬🇪 შთამბეჭდავი

🇦🇿 təsirli

🇲🇽 impresionante

Etymology

The word 'impressive' originated from the Latin word 'impressivus', which means 'having the ability to impress'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century. The term 'impressive' reflects the notion of creating a strong impact or leaving a lasting impression on someone or something.

See also: impressed, impression, impressionable, impressions, impressively, impressiveness, unimpressed, unimpressive.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,051 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.