impressive

[im-pres-iv]

adjective

1. having the ability to impress the mind; arousing admiration, awe, respect, etc.; moving; admirable.

   an impressive ceremony; an impressive appearance.

   Synonyms: awesome, imposing

impressive

/ ɪmˈprɛsɪv /

adjective

1. capable of impressing, esp by size, magnificence, etc; awe-inspiring; commanding

Other Word Forms

• impressively adverb
• impressiveness noun
• preimpressive adjective
• unimpressive adjective
• unimpressively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of impressive¹

First recorded in 1585–95; impress ¹ + -ive

Example Sentences

South Africa responded to their crushing defeat by England with an impressive six-wicket victory over New Zealand at the World Cup in Indore.

From BBC

Craig Bellamy says England's squad depth is so impressive that a boxing promoter would not pair them against his Wales side.

From BBC

Swift's sales figures are all the more impressive because album sales elsewhere in the industry are in a state of perpetual decline.

From BBC

The demonstrations look impressive because clothes folding seems complicated, but really isn’t.

From Los Angeles Times

"It's not an act," says Williams, who believes Premier League clubs will have also noted that behind the caricature is a modern, intelligent, impressive manager.

From BBC

Related Words

• dramatic 
• exciting 
• extraordinary 
• important 
• imposing 
• intense 
• massive 
• monumental 
• notable 
• profound 
• remarkable 
• splendid 
• superb 
• thrilling