noun

impression

ihm-PREHSHN

noun

A feeling or opinion formed about something, often quickly and without deep analysis.

"My first impression of the city was that it was noisy but friendly."

"He gave the impression that he already knew the answer."

A mark made by pressing one object onto or into another.

"The dentist took an impression of her teeth for the retainer."

An imitation of someone's voice, mannerisms, or style, usually for comic effect.

"He does a brilliant impression of the prime minister."

In digital advertising, a single instance of an ad or post being displayed to a viewer.

"The campaign generated over two million impressions in its first week."

How to Use Impression

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn opinion you form quickly, a physical mark, an imitation of someone, or (online) a single view/display of content.

Common mistake

Don't confuse "make an impression" (leave people with a strong opinion of you) with "do an impression" (imitate someone).

Common pairings

first impression make an impression do an impression of

impressioned past tense, impressions plural, impressions singular

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Can you complete this real example?

My first _____ of the city was that it was noisy but friendly.

From Old French impression, from Latin impressio, from imprimere ("to press into") — related to impress.

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