Reading Theme:
Impressive: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：awe-inspiring (impressive)
impressive
/ɪmˈpresɪv/
adj.
If something is impressive, it makes you say "Wow!" because it's so good, big, or skillful.
awe-inspiring
➕
/ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/
adj.
Describes something that evokes admiration or wonder due to its exceptional quality, skill, or success.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From verb 'impress' (to make a mark) + suffix '-ive' (tending to).
💡 Mnemonic
IMPRESS-ive: If it can IMpress and leave you with a positive imPRESSION, it's impressive.
📖 Example
The footballer's winning goal in the last minute was truly impressive.
The footballer's decisive last-minute goal was truly awe-inspiring.
🔗 Collocations
impressive performance – an exceptionally skillful or effective display of ability
deeply impressive – causing profound admiration or respect
impressive achievement – a notable and admirable accomplishment
🔄 Synonyms
remarkable (adj.) – worthy of attention or striking
admirable (adj.) – deserving respect and approval
formidable (adj.) – inspiring fear or respect through being powerful or capable
🚫 Antonyms
unimpressive (adj.) – failing to evoke admiration or interest
mediocre (adj.) – of only moderate quality; not very good
🌱 Derivatives
impressively (adv.) – in a manner that arouses admiration
impressiveness (n.) – the quality of being impressive
📖 Cultural Story
The verb 'impress' originates from Latin 'imprimere', meaning 'to press into or upon'. In the 17th century, 'impressive' emerged to describe something that makes a strong mental or emotional mark, akin to a physical imprint. It is frequently used in modern reviews for performances, products, or achievements.
Meaning 2：grand and imposing (impressive)
impressive
/ɪmˈpresɪv/
adj.
Something impressive can also be very big or grand in a way that makes you feel small or amazed.
grand and imposing
➕
/ɡrænd ənd ɪmˈpəʊzɪŋ/
adj.
Describes something that is large, grand, or majestic in scale or appearance, creating a feeling of awe or making one feel small.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The skyline of Shanghai at night, with all its towering skyscrapers lit up, is a truly impressive sight.
The illuminated skyline of Shanghai at night, featuring its multitude of towering skyscrapers, is a truly grand and imposing spectacle.
🔗 Collocations
impressive building – a structure that is grand, majestic, or awe-inspiring in scale or design
visually impressive – striking or awe-inspiring in appearance
most impressive – the grandest or most awe-inspiring example
🔄 Synonyms
majestic (adj.) – having or showing impressive beauty or dignity
monumental (adj.) – great in importance, extent, or size
awe-inspiring (adj.) – causing a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder
🚫 Antonyms
unassuming (adj.) – not pretentious or arrogant; modest
modest (adj.) – relatively small, limited, or humble in size or amount
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