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impressive

admirable / grand

/ɪmˈpɹɛsɪv/

Adjective
comp: more impressivesup: most impressive

Evokes a sense of admiration, awe, or respect triggered by size, skill, quality, or intensity. It suggests that something has left a physical or emotional "impression" on the observer. While often positive, it can carry a nuance of intimidation or overwhelming scale. Unlike "beautiful," which is aesthetic, "impressive" focuses on the impact of competence or magnitude. Commonly used in professional evaluations, athletic achievements, and architectural descriptions. It sits comfortably in both formal and casual registers, though in high-stakes corporate settings, it serves as a standard marker of success.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬David is at his office desk, Eleanor is at home in her kitchen.
Eleanor Smith

I SAW YOU FIXED THE DISHWASHER. VERY IMPRESSIVE!

Eleanor Smith
David Smith
David Smith

Just watched a YouTube video, Mom. Nothing to write home about.

💡
Eleanor, David's mother, is overly praising him for a mundane task, reflecting her overbearing personality and a touch of tech illiteracy with the caps lock. David's response uses the idiom 'nothing to write home about,' meaning it's not particularly special or exciting, highlighting his mild embarrassment and casual, understated nature in contrast to his mother's enthusiasm.

Meanings

Adjectiveadmirable

Evoking admiration through size, quality, skill, or importance.

"The skyscraper is an impressive feat of engineering."

Adjectivegrand

Creating a strong effect on the mind or feelings.

"She gave an impressive performance at the recital."

Collocations & Compounds

impressive display

A show or performance that is very good and causes admiration.

The athletes put on an impressive display of skill and determination.

impressive performance

A show of skill or ability that is very good and causes admiration.

The young pianist gave an impressive performance at the concert hall.

impressive achievement

Something that has been accomplished successfully and causes admiration.

Graduating with honors despite working full-time is an impressive achievement.

impressive record

A history of success or achievements that is notable and causes admiration.

The company has an impressive record of growth and profitability.

impressive results

Outcomes or effects that are very good and cause admiration.

The new marketing strategy yielded impressive results in just a few months.

Etymology

The word 'impressive' originates from the Latin verb 'impressare,' meaning 'to press upon' or 'to make an impression.' It entered English in the late 16th century, initially relating to the act of stamping or printing. By the 17th century, its figurative meaning of 'evoking admiration or awe' began to develop, influenced by the idea of something making a strong mental or emotional mark on a person.

Related Words

Last Updated: June 11, 2026Report an Error