impressive

American  

[im-pres-iv] / ɪmˈprɛs ɪv /

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

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impressive British  

/ ɪmˈprɛsɪv /

adjective

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

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of impressive

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

Example Sentences

Again and again, scientists have looked inside the guts of this blessed population of over-100s and found an impressive array of bacteria.

From BBC

Becoming a homeowner at such a young age is an impressive achievement.

From MarketWatch

What the Seahawks did in shutting down the Niners in that game was especially impressive considering how well San Francisco’s offense had been playing.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Chargers’ defense did an impressive job of putting the clamps on New England’s offense — some nifty runs by Maye notwithstanding — but the offense couldn’t turn those efforts into points.

From Los Angeles Times

Countless iconic performances, you've worked with every great director, you've won three Golden Globes and an Oscar, and the most impressive thing is you were able to accomplish all that before your girlfriend turned 30.

From BBC

Related Words

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