adjective
impressive
Causing admiration or respect.
Her impressive knowledge of local history earns the visitors' respect.
Etymology
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.