English Reference
adjective

impressed

adj.
US /ˌɪmˈpɹɛst/ UK /ɪmpɹˈɛst/ im·pressed

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    feeling admiration or respect for someone because of their skills or qualities.

    affected by a strong, usually favourable, impression; feeling admiration or respect.

    Simple

    My boss was very impressed with my presentation and offered me a promotion.

    In context

    The recruiters were visibly impressed by her ability to handle complex technical questions without prior preparation.

    Usage

    Commonly followed by the prepositions 'with' or 'by'.

    Pitfall
    I am very impressed from your English. I am very impressed with your English.

    Use the preposition 'with' or 'by' after impressed, not 'from'.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical

    having a mark or pattern pressed into a surface.

    bearing a mark, image, or design produced by pressure or stamping.

    Simple

    The wax seal showed an impressed image of a lion.

    In context

    The archaeologist identified the pottery's origin by examining the impressed patterns along the rim of the vessel.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency ArchaicFormal Law

    forced to join the army or navy against your will.

    compelled to serve in a military or naval force, typically by a press gang.

    Simple

    In the 18th century, many impressed sailors tried to escape from their ships.

    In context

    The historical record details the plight of impressed men who were seized from merchant vessels to bolster the Royal Navy's numbers during the conflict.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is almost exclusively found in historical contexts, particularly regarding the British Navy.

    conscripteddrafted

Usage impressed on pre-season

Jacobs said she was impressed by her fellow lawmakers who have managed to make it work.

BBC News· 15 Aug 2026

The teenager impressed at the World Cup and Lille had initially wanted any potential move to include a 12-month loan deal back to the French side.

The Guardian· 16 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated