What is impression? Pronunciation and usage in English

impression means . Learn how to pronounce and use impression through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of impression

impressionnoun

/ɪmˈprɛʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of impression

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "impression" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word is generally divided into three syllables: im-PRESS-ion

2. Pronunciation Guide:

  • im: Pronounced like "im" in "impossible". It's a short, quick "uh" sound.
  • PRESS: This is the most important part! It sounds like "press" in "press button". The "e" is pronounced clearly. It’s not a short “eh” sound.
  • ion: Pronounced like "ee-on." The "i" is a long "ee" sound (like in "see").

3. Combined Pronunciation:

Putting it all together, it sounds something like: im-PRESS-ion (with a slight pause between “press” and “ion”).

4. Tips to help:

  • Stress: The emphasis is on the second syllable ("PRESS").
  • Don’t reduce the “e”: Important - don’t say "im-pre-ss-ion". That's a very common mistake! The "e" in "PRESS" should be clear and pronounced.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are a few resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "impression" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/impression/ - This website has recordings of the word pronounced by native speakers from various countries.
    • YouTube: Search for “how to pronounce impression” on YouTube - you’ll find many videos demonstrating the correct pronunciation.

To summarize, aim for: im-PRESS-ion

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you an example sentence using the word?

Usage and examples with the word impression in English

Let's break down how to use the word "impression" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a categorized breakdown with examples:

1. As a Noun (Most Common Usage):

  • A feeling or idea formed about someone or something: This is the most frequent way to use "impression." It’s about a subjective judgment.

    • "I got a really positive impression of him during the interview." (Meaning: I formed a good opinion)
    • "Don't form a bad impression of the town before you've seen it." (Meaning: Avoid having a negative opinion)
    • "The movie left a lasting impression on me." (Meaning: It had a significant impact on my thoughts and feelings)
    • "She had a good impression of her new colleagues." (Meaning: She thought they were likable and competent)

  • A mark or trace: (Less common in everyday speech, more often in formal contexts)

    • "The rain left a clear impression in the mud."
    • "The sculptor’s tools left an impression on the clay."

  • A print or copy: (Often used in printing/design)

    • "The impression was slightly blurred."
    • "I need to make an impression of the document."

2. As a Verb (Less Common, But Important):

  • To make a strong or memorable effect on someone: This is about creating a feeling or opinion.

    • "The speaker really impressioned the audience with his eloquent speech." (Meaning: He made a strong positive impact)
    • "He tried to impression her with his expensive gifts." (Meaning: He wanted to make a good impression).
    • “The band impressioned the critics with their originality.” (Meaning: The band made a good and notable impact.)

  • To print (something): (Specifically in printing)

    • “The printer impressioned the photographs onto the paper.”

3. Phrases with "Impression":

  • First impression: The initial opinion someone forms of you or something. “It’s important to make a good first impression.”
  • Make an impression: To create a strong or memorable effect. “I want to make an impression on my boss.”
  • Leave an impression: To have a lasting effect. “The concert left an impression on me that I’ll never forget."
  • Under my impression: "Under my impression, the meeting was scheduled for 2 PM, but it's actually 3." (Meaning: Based on my understanding...)

Tips for Using “Impression” Correctly:

  • Think about the context: Is someone forming an opinion, creating a mark, or printing something?
  • Consider the nuance: "Impression" often implies a subjective, personal feeling.
  • Synonyms: Depending on the meaning, you could use words like: opinion, feeling, effect, impact, trace, mark.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about when you want to use the word “impression”? (e.g., a conversation, writing an essay, etc.)

Synonyms for the word impression

Idioms of the word impression

(be) under the impression that…
believing, usually wrongly, that something is true or is happening
  • I was under the impression that the work had already been completed.
  • The soldiers scattered, under the impression that it was an enemy attack.
  • I was under the impression that you weren't coming until tomorrow.

Practice with vocabulary impression

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The CEO's compelling presentation left a strong _____ on everyone in the room, ensuring the proposal was well-received.
  2. Despite the initial difficulties, I was under the _____ that the project would still meet its deadline.
  3. Her thoughtful analysis provided a fresh _____ on the complex economic data, which was crucial for our strategy.
  4. The company's new sustainability initiative is expected to have a significant _____ on its public image and consumer trust.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words best describes the immediate mental picture or feeling one gets from someone or something? a) Inference b) Notion c) Impression d) Conclusion e) Perception

  2. To convey a sense of professionalism during a job interview, one should aim to make a strong positive _____. a) Reflection b) Opinion c) Impression d) Belief e) Estimation

  3. The artist's latest sculpture gives the _____ of movement, even though it is completely stationary. a) Illusion b) Impression c) Vision d) Aspect e) Appearance

  4. Before implementing the new policy, the management sought diverse _____ on its potential effects from all departments. a) Consequences b) Feedback c) Implications d) Input e) Decisions

  5. The committee held several meetings to determine the ethical _____ of their proposed research project. a) Considerations b) Implications c) Ramifications d) Evaluations e) Outcomes

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: His calm demeanor made everyone think he was highly experienced. Rewrite using "impression":

  2. Original: I thought the conference was scheduled for Friday, but I later realized my mistake. Rewrite using "impression":

  3. Original: How she sees the situation greatly influences her decision-making process. Rewrite without using "impression", using a suitable replacement word:

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. impression
  2. impression
  3. perspective (or insight / view)
  4. impact (or effect)

Exercise 2:

  1. c) Impression, e) Perception
  2. c) Impression
  3. a) Illusion, b) Impression
  4. b) Feedback, d) Input
  5. b) Implications, c) Ramifications

Exercise 3:

  1. His calm demeanor gave everyone the impression that he was highly experienced.
  2. I was under the impression that the conference was scheduled for Friday, but I later realized my mistake.
  3. Her perception of the situation greatly influences her decision-making process.

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