B2verb1K

Impress

UK /["/ɪmˈpres/","/ɪmˈpresɪz/","/ɪmˈprest/","/ɪmˈpresɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪmˈpres/","/ɪmˈpresɪz/","/ɪmˈprest/","/ɪmˈpresɪŋ/"]/

Definition

if a person or thing impresses you, you admire them or it

In simple words: To make someone feel admiration or respect.

Examples

  • She always tries to impress her friends with her cooking skills.
  • The magician was able to impress the audience with his tricks.
  • He plans to impress the interviewers during his job interview.
  • The beautiful scenery of the mountains can truly impress anyone who visits.
  • To impress upon students the importance of reading, the teacher organized a book fair.

Usage notes

Use 'impress' when you want to express that someone has made a positive impact on another person's feelings. It's appropriate in both casual and professional contexts.

Grammar pattern

impress + object

Memory hint

Think of 'impress' as 'I'm pressed to impress you' — like trying hard to make a good showing.

Collocations

  • really
  • be determined to
  • be keen to
  • hope to
  • with
  • an attempt to impress somebody
  • an effort to impress somebody
  • be easily impressed

Synonyms

  • inspire
  • awe
  • enthrall
  • captivate
  • astonish

Antonyms

  • disappoint
  • bore
  • dissatisfy

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'press' — remember 'impress' involves making a positive impression.
  • Using 'impress' without an object — it's not used alone.
  • Overusing in casual settings — can sound pretentious if used too often.