How to pronounce impressive
Say it like im-PRES-iv. Impressive has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (PRES).
- im
- PRES
- iv
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Impressive 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.
- PRESSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- ivKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of impressive
American and British speakers say impressive in essentially the same way: /ˌɪmˈprɛsɪv/ in the US and /ɪmˈprɛsɪv/ in the UK.
British respelling: im-PRES-iv.
What does impressive mean?
- Making, or tending to make, a positive impression; having power to impress.“an impressive speech”
- Capable of being impressed.
- Appealing.
Where does impressive come from?
From impress + -ive.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Opposite meaning
Words that rhyme with impressive
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of impressive.
Questions about saying impressive
How do you pronounce impressive?
Say im-PRES-iv. The American pronunciation is /ˌɪmˈprɛsɪv/. In British English it is /ɪmˈprɛsɪv/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in impressive?
Impressive has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (PRES). Broken into parts: im · PRES · iv.
Do Americans and Brits say impressive the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˌɪmˈprɛsɪv/ and the British form is /ɪmˈprɛsɪv/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.