Amazed vs I am impressed

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Amazed

Top 2,000 (common)B1adjective

I am impressed

Top 2,000 (common)
 AmazedI am impressed
Pronunciation🇬🇧 /["/əˈmeɪzd/"]/🇺🇸 /["/əˈmeɪzd/"]/🇬🇧 //aɪ əm ɪmˈprɛst//🇺🇸 //aɪ əm ɪmˈprɛst//
MeaningVery surprised or impressed.I think something is very good or amazing.
ExampleI was amazed by the stunning performance of the dancers.After the presentation, I am impressed by her thorough research.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 2,000 (common)
CEFR levelB1-
Part of speechadjective
Collocationsbe, look, seem, absolutely, completely, just, at, by, continue to be amazed, never cease to be amazed, shocked and amazeddeeply impressed, truly impressed, greatly impressed, impressed with, impressed by
Antonymsunimpressed, bored-
Common mistakesConfused with 'amazing' – 'amazed' describes a feeling, while 'amazing' describes something that causes that feeling., Using 'amazed' without an object – remember to express what caused the amazement., Overusing in casual conversation – save for moments of genuine surprise.Confusing with 'impressing' which means making an impression., Using it inappropriately in sarcastic tones., Not using the correct verb form, e.g., 'I am impressive' instead of 'I am impressed'.
Usage notesUse 'amazed' to describe feelings of wonder or admiration. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Avoid using it in casual or playful settings where lighter expressions like 'wow' might be better.Use when expressing admiration or respect. It's appropriate in most contexts, such as formal or informal situations.

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I am impressed

Frequently asked questions: Amazed vs I am impressed

What's the difference between Amazed and I am impressed?

Amazed: Very surprised or impressed. I am impressed: I think something is very good or amazing.

Can you show an example of each?

Amazed: I was amazed by the stunning performance of the dancers. I am impressed: After the presentation, I am impressed by her thorough research.

Can I use Amazed and I am impressed interchangeably?

Not always. Amazed and I am impressed are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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