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

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  • 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.

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