French word

impressionner

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛ̃pʁesjone/

Meaning

  • verbimpress

Example

Ce film m'a impressionné.

This film impressed me.

Illustration for impressionner (impress)

More examples

Ses exploits ont impressionné le public.

His achievements impressed the audience.

Core concept

A person or event stamps a lasting emotional trace on the mind, whether the response is wonder, fear, or strong feeling.

Common phrases

  • impressionner quelqu'un

    impress someone

  • impressionner le public

    impress the audience

Similar words

surprendre: To catch someone off guard with something unexpected.
étonner: To amaze someone through something strange or astonishing.
choquer: To deeply upset or offend someone with a shocking impact.
frapper: To strike someone emotionally and leave a strong impression.

Definition in French

Causer chez quelqu'un une trace vive dans l'esprit, qui suscite admiration, stupeur ou émotion.

Word origin

The French verb derives from impression with a verb-forming ending, while impression ultimately goes back through Old French to Latin impressio, an imprint.

Usage tips

  • Unlike English impress, impressionner can describe a frightening or unpleasant effect as well as admiration, so context determines the value.

Other meanings

  • moveverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word