Latin

in-

in, into, on, upon

Forms

in-
im- — Used before b, m, or p in Latin.
il- — Used before l in Latin.
ir- — Used before r in Latin.
en- — Developed in French in some words later borrowed into English.

Origin

Reconstructed Proto-Indo-European *en, ‘in.’

Note

Identical spellings can hide two different prefixes: this one indicates position or direction, while the other means ‘not.’

79 / 267

adjective

impressive

Causing admiration or respect.

Her impressive knowledge of local history earns the visitors' respect.

Etymology

impressiveLatinpress into or stamp

The Latin root pictures pressing a mark into something. Impressive describes what makes a strong mental mark, especially one that evokes respect or admiration.

More examples

The hotel lobby has an impressive marble staircase.
Your progress is impressive after just three lessons.
She gives an impressive performance in her first debate.

Forms

impressive · more impressive · most impressive

impress verb — To cause someone to feel admiration.

impressively adverb — In a way that inspires admiration.

Similar words

admirable: Emphasizes deserving approval, especially for character or conduct.
remarkable: Highlights being unusual or noteworthy, rather than necessarily inspiring admiration.
outstanding: Suggests excellence compared with others, not simply inspiring admiration.