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 In 2004, wristlets in 75 iterations generated $40 million in sales, which at 4% of our overall revenue was quite impressive for an item at such a low price. Big Think, 14 Oct. 2025 That small difference is impressive considering the lower battery capacity and smaller motors. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 14 Oct. 2025 Kwik Trip’s customer satisfaction rose by an impressive 8% this year, bringing its score to an industry-leading 84 out of 100. Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 14 Oct. 2025 But the most impressive part about Thomas’ performance in 2025 is his ability to get to the line of scrimmage. Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for impressive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for impressive
Adjective
  • Psyk said he was moved that the coach was emotional speaking to media, alums and boosters.
    Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 11 Oct. 2025
  • An emotional Wilson shared an embrace with her partner, Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo, following the win.
    Jacob Lev, CNN Money, 11 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • What’s exciting is that comedic talent can now receive guidance from Mark and be paired with Todd to go out to the market with a project that’s already vetted and packaged.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2025
  • From some exciting new restaurants to great concerts and shows, there is a lot of cool stuff to experience this weekend.
    Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 16 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Pups with excitable and reactive temperaments were especially responsive to on-screen content, suggesting that many canines may interpret moving images much like real-world events.
    Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Oct. 2025
  • The cranky and irritating backseat driver, who bums a lift midway through the Griswolds' adventure, also has with her the easily excitable pooch Dinky.
    Jordan Hoffman, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Impressive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/impressive. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on impressive

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