B2adjective1K

Impressed

UK /["/ɪmˈprest/"]/US /["/ɪmˈprest/"]/

Definition

admiring somebody/something because you think they are particularly good, interesting, etc.

In simple words: Feeling admiration for someone or something.

Examples

  • I was truly impressed by her ability to solve the complex math problem.
  • He was impressed with the stunning performance of the orchestra last night.
  • After reading the reviews, I was impressed to see such high ratings for the restaurant.
  • She left an impressed audience after her captivating presentation.
  • The teacher was impressed by the creativity displayed in the students' projects.

Usage notes

Use 'impressed' when you want to express admiration or respect. It is appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but avoid using it in overly casual settings where simpler words might fit better.

Grammar pattern

be + impressed + (by/with) + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'in-pressed' — imagine being so amazed that you feel pressed in by admiration.

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • at
  • by
  • with

Synonyms

  • amazed
  • astonished
  • awed
  • impressed by
  • captivated

Antonyms

  • unimpressed
  • indifferent

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'impress' — remember 'impressed' is a state of feeling.
  • Using it with the wrong preposition — it should be 'impressed by' or 'impressed with'.
  • Omitting the preposition entirely, e.g., saying 'I was impressed him' instead of 'I was impressed by him.'