What does impressing mean?
Impressive describes someone or something that commands attention through unusual ability, achievement, grandeur, or visual impact. The word is commonly applied to performances, results, buildings, exhibitions, and other displays that are admired for their quality or striking appearance. Saying that an achievement was impressive emphasizes its difficulty, excellence, or ability to inspire admiration, while saying that something looked impressive focuses more on its imposing or memorable visual effect. In ordinary use, the term is strongly positive, though it can occasionally suggest deliberate showmanship. “Impressive” is also versatile because it can describe practical accomplishments as readily as grand spectacles, making it useful for praising both ability and appearance.
adjectiveHaving qualities that inspire admiration or respect, especially through grandeur, skill, or striking appearance.
- Having qualities that inspire admiration or respect.
- Having a striking or imposing appearance.
"The bridge offers an impressive view of the city from its observation deck."
"The research team made an impressive breakthrough in renewable energy."
"She wore an impressive silver gown to the state dinner."
Something impressive does more than look grand: it commands attention and earns admiration.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does impressing come from?
“Impressive” was formed in English from “impress,” meaning to press into or make a mark, and ultimately relates to Latin comprimere, “to press together.” The Latin adjective impressus, “pressed upon” or “marked,” developed into a sense involving producing a strong effect on the mind. Its English development extended from making an impression to influencing people through display, and later to describing things that inspire admiration.
Related word forms
How impressing is actually used
Generally positive and complimentary. It is often used for achievements, performances, buildings, displays, or anything visually striking, though it can sometimes suggest that a spectacle is designed to impress.