Synonym Chooser

How is the word impressive distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of impressive are affecting, moving, pathetic, poignant, and touching. While all these words mean "having the power to produce deep emotion," impressive implies compelling attention, admiration, wonder, or conviction.

an impressive list of achievements

How do affecting and moving relate to one another, in the sense of impressive?

Affecting is close to moving but most often suggests pathos.

an affecting deathbed reunion

When could moving be used to replace impressive?

In some situations, the words moving and impressive are roughly equivalent. However, moving may apply to any strong emotional effect including thrilling, agitating, saddening, or calling forth pity or sympathy.

a moving appeal for contributions

When is it sensible to use pathetic instead of impressive?

The words pathetic and impressive can be used in similar contexts, but pathetic implies moving to pity or sometimes contempt.

pathetic attempts to justify misconduct

When would poignant be a good substitute for impressive?

The synonyms poignant and impressive are sometimes interchangeable, but poignant applies to what keenly or sharply affects one's sensitivities.

a poignant documentary on the homeless

Where would touching be a reasonable alternative to impressive?

The words touching and impressive are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, touching implies arousing tenderness or compassion.

the touching innocence in a child's eyes

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of impressive The All-American scored nine goals and added eight assists while registering an impressive 80-percent faceoff winning percentage. Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 7 July 2025 Piston Peak is part of an impressive lineup of new attractions planned for Disney World. Grace Harrington, People.com, 6 July 2025 In the latest round of real-world tests, the MPV completed a 684-mile (1,100-km) journey from Stuttgart to Rome with impressive efficiency. New Atlas, 6 July 2025 Bailey flashed a sweet jumper and impressive athleticism but struggled with his shot selection and had more turnovers than assists. Mike Vorkunov, New York Times, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for impressive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for impressive
Adjective
  • Stacy sought to foster emotional and physical self-reliance among its campers, according to Texas Monthly, which cited an old brochure from her time.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 5 July 2025
  • Cortisol rises during times of emotional or physical stress.
    Renée Onque, CNBC, 5 July 2025
Adjective
  • Step into the rhythm of the day with ESSENCE PRESENTS: THE COLLECTIVE SET—an immersive sonic experience powered by today’s most exciting DJ crews and music collectives.
    Essence, Essence, 7 July 2025
  • But his most exciting job is as a private investigator.
    Richard Johnson, New York Daily News, 6 July 2025
Adjective
  • Contreras, the excitable ex-Cub, took exception and barked at Palencia.
    Patrick Mooney, New York Times, 8 July 2025
  • Audiences at Berlin shows have tended toward enthusiastic influencers, brand fans and excitable fashion students.
    Cathrin Schaer, Footwear News, 6 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Impressive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/impressive. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on impressive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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