impress - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
impress Word Meanings
- to make someone feel admiration
- to create a mark or design
- to enforce a service
impress Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
impress Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪmˈprɛs/
US
/ɪmˈprɛs/
impress Word Etymology
im- = not or 'in', press = to push. Latin 'imprimere' → English 'impress'. Imagine a stamp pushing down on paper, leaving a striking design... a creative mark!
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set a small object on the desk and move my hand to adjust its angle. I push and pull a little until it sits just right, and I hold the other person’s gaze as I turn toward them. The room seems to slow, my breath steadies, and a subtle shift in their expression hints at attention. That moment when action becomes felt meaning—effort seen, not said—that’s what it feels like to impress.
Real Context
Impress means to cause admiration or respect, often by quality or achievement. It can also mean stamping or pressing a design onto a surface, as when a seal leaves an imprint. In formal history, impress can mean to force someone into service or duty, especially military. In everyday speech, we say 'to impress someone' or 'to make a lasting impression'. Common collocations: be impressed by, impress upon someone something, make a lasting impression, stamp/press a mark. Note the difference between 'impress' and 'express' or 'imprint'. Learners often mix with 'impressed' and 'impressive' and confuse noun vs verb forms.
Usage Reminders
- • Impress is a verb; use 'be impressed by' or 'impress someone with' to show emotional reaction.
- • Remember the three senses: admiration, imprint, and historical conscription.
- • Use 'impressive' for something that causes admiration, not 'impress' as a description.
- • Don’t confuse with 'express' or 'imprint'.
- • Collocations: impress someone with, leave a lasting impression, make an impression on someone.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing impress with express or imprint
- Thinking impress means 'to improve' rather than 'to cause admiration'
- Believing impress only applies to people, not objects or actions
- Using 'impress' with passive objects instead of 'be impressed by'
- Mixing up impression vs impressive vs impressive
Thinking Differences
English frames impress as a mix of emotional impact and physical marking. Learners must separate the sense of stirring admiration from stamping an imprint, and from historical force. Common errors involve confusing with express or imprint and using the noun form impression where a verb is needed.
Learning Tips
- Practice be impressed by and impress someone with real examples
- Compare with impression and impressive to solidify differences
- Learn the stamping sense with stamps or seals imagery
- Remember the historical sense as 'to force into service'
- Use collocations in context: be impressed by, impress someone with
- Create 3 short sentences in three senses
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'impress'?
A.To make a negative impact
B.To confuse
C.To discourage
D.To make a positive impact
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'impress' used correctly?
A.He didn't want to impress his boss by working hard.
B.He impressed with boredom at the meeting.
C.The messy room failed to impress the guests.
D.She tried to impress her friends with her new hairstyle.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is SIMILAR to 'impress'?
A.Lackluster
B.Influence
C.Mediocre
D.Forgettable
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the OPPOSITE of 'impress'?
A.Attractive
B.Compel
C.Repel
D.Entertain
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would someone want to impress others?
A.Late-night snack
B.Job interview
C.Watching TV alone
D.Doing laundry
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
🔥 Advanced
A Cup, A Clock, and the Small Things That Matter
English Learning Listening Content
Listen NowWant to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App