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impress

verb

/ɪmˈprɛs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of impress

To make a strong, lasting, or favorable impact on someone's mind, emotions, or opinion.
"The talented pianist never failed to impress the audience with her stunning performances."

Detailed meaning of impress

When someone or something impresses, they leave a positive or memorable impression, often evoking admiration, respect, or astonishment. To impress is to create a sense of awe, inspiration, or fascination, captivating the attention or interest of others. This can be achieved through exceptional skills, talents, accomplishments, or qualities that stand out from the norm. Impressions can also be made through acts of kindness, generosity, or thoughtfulness that leave a lasting mark on someone's perception. Whether through accomplishments, character, or actions, the verb "impress" signifies the ability to create a significant, often favorable, impact that resonates with others and is etched into their memory or perception.

Example sentences containing impress

1. With his charismatic personality, John has the ability to impress anyone he meets.
2. Her stunning culinary skills never fail to impress her guests.
3. They aim to impress their customers with their exceptional customer service.
4. His breathtaking paintings will impress any art enthusiast.
5. She always manages to impress her teachers with her insightful questions.
6. His perseverance in overcoming obstacles continues to impress his mentors.

History and etymology of impress

The verb 'impress' comes from the Latin word 'impressus,' which is the past participle of 'imprimere.' 'Imprimere' is a combination of 'in' (meaning 'in' or 'on') and 'primere' (meaning 'to press' or 'to push'). In Latin, 'imprimere' initially referred to the act of pressing or engraving a mark or image onto a surface, such as in printing. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass the idea of leaving a mark or making an impact more broadly. As the word 'impress' transitioned into English, it retained this sense of making a strong, lasting, or favorable impact on someone's mind, emotions, or opinion. The etymology of 'impress' underscores its historical connection to the notion of leaving a mark or making a significant impression, emphasizing its role in describing the ability to influence or captivate someone's thoughts, emotions, or perceptions.

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Further usage examples of impress

1. I hope to impress my future in-laws with my understanding of their culture.
2. Their sustainable farming practices impress the environmentally conscious community.
3. His generosity never fails to impress the people around him.
4. Her business acumen will impress even the most seasoned entrepreneurs.
5. They plan to impress their investors with a strong business model.
6. He aspires to impress his readers with his gripping storytelling.
7. Her precision in playing the violin will impress the strictest music critic.
8. His cutting-edge architectural designs never fail to impress the industry.
9. She hopes to impress her peers with her extensive knowledge of literature.
10. His compelling arguments in the court continue to impress the jury.
11. To impress the university selection committee, he spent months perfecting his application.
12. Her dedication to social work will impress any humanitarian.
13. His innovative solutions impress his colleagues and superiors alike.
14. She plans to impress the fashion industry with her unique designs.