a serious impression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious impression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the effect or impact that something has, particularly in a context where gravity or importance is conveyed. Example: "The presentation left a serious impression on the audience, highlighting the urgency of the issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

At the opposite end Jagielka and Joleon Lescott were impressive against Carlos Tevez who struggled to make a serious impression upon the game.

Independent

Lionel Messi's achieved just about everything in football bar making a serious impression on the biggest tournament of all.

The Guardian - Sport

It is at best remotely possible that anyone in this staging could make a serious impression as the ballet's sorcerer, Von Rotbart.

The New York Times - Arts

Stuart Broad took 4 for 83 for England, but he was the only bowler who was able to make a serious impression.

Independent

So it is not at all surprising to see them at the top of Group I, nor will it be if they make a serious impression in Russia.

The Guardian - Sport

The film's central character is an American expatriate played by Ryan Gosling, who made a serious impression as a getaway driver in Refn's Los Angeles-set Drive.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

With Arsene Wenger in the directors' box serving the final game of a three-match touchline ban and assistant Steve Bould in charge on the touchline, Arsenal never made any serious impression on a night of sheer frustration.

BBC

It will need a lot more to come through - especially in central defence as I select Smalling with no real conviction - to even think they will make any serious impression.

BBC

Avoiding the remaining frigates of the British blockade, Duperré's ships escaped unnoticed and began cruising in the Bay of Bengal, capturing a few small vessels but making no serious impression on British trade in the region.

Wikipedia

When the pauses in either half grew longer than the dances that had preceded them and a few people started a slow clap to indicate impatience, it made no serious impression because of the surrounding din: the audience was happily talking its collective head off.

The New York Times - Arts

But she could make no serious impression on either Olympic 200m champion Felix or world 400m champion Montsho, who won in 49.88 seconds.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a serious impression" when you want to emphasize the significant impact something has had, especially in formal or professional contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a serious impression" in overly casual settings. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "made a big impact" or "really stood out" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious impression" functions as a noun phrase, where "serious" modifies the noun "impression". It describes the quality or nature of the impression made. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

20%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a serious impression" is a grammatically correct and widely applicable phrase used to describe a significant impact or effect. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across diverse sources. While suitable for formal contexts such as news and business, it may be less appropriate in casual conversation. For increased impact, consider alternatives like "a profound impact" or "a significant effect". Remember to tailor your language to the specific context and audience to maximize clarity and effectiveness. By following these guidelines, you can confidently use "a serious impression" to convey the weight and importance of a given influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a profound impact

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the effect.

a significant effect

Highlights the importance and magnitude of the outcome.

a lasting impact

Focuses on the enduring nature of the effect.

a deep impression

Suggests that the impact was strongly felt and memorable.

a strong effect

Highlights the intensity and power of the influence.

a considerable influence

Emphasizes the extent and importance of the effect.

a marked impact

Indicates a noticeable and distinct effect.

a notable effect

Highlights the prominence and recognizability of the outcome.

a substantial impact

Stresses the considerable size and importance of the influence.

a powerful effect

Focuses on the strength and potency of the impact.

FAQs

What does "a serious impression" mean?

The phrase "a serious impression" describes a significant and noticeable effect that something has on someone or something. It suggests the effect is impactful and noteworthy.

How can I use "a serious impression" in a sentence?

You can use "a serious impression" to describe the impact of a performance, presentation, or event. For example, "The speaker made "a serious impression" on the audience with their compelling arguments."

What are some alternatives to "a serious impression"?

Alternatives include "a profound impact", "a significant effect", or "a lasting impression", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a serious impression" formal or informal?

"A serious impression" is generally considered suitable for formal and professional contexts. In more casual settings, you might prefer phrases like "made a big impact" or "really stood out".