How to pronounce impression
Say it like im-PRESH-un. Impression has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (PRESH).
- im
- PRESH
- un
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Impression pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- imGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- PRESHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- unKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of impression
American and British speakers say impression in essentially the same way: /ˌɪmˈprɛʃən/ in the US and /ɪmˈprɛʃən/ in the UK.
British respelling: im-PRESH-un.
What does impression mean?
- a vague idea in which some confidence is placed“his impression of her was favorable”“what are your feelings about the crisis?”
- an outward appearance“he made a good impression”“I wanted to create an impression of success”
- a clear and telling mental image“he described his mental picture of his assailant”“he had no clear picture of himself or his world”
Where does impression come from?
From Old French impression, from Latin impressio.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with impression
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of impression.
Questions about saying impression
How do you pronounce impression?
Say im-PRESH-un. The American pronunciation is /ˌɪmˈprɛʃən/. In British English it is /ɪmˈprɛʃən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in impression?
Impression has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (PRESH). Broken into parts: im · PRESH · un.
Do Americans and Brits say impression the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˌɪmˈprɛʃən/ and the British form is /ɪmˈprɛʃən/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.