an impressive specimen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an impressive specimen" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something or someone that stands out due to their remarkable qualities or characteristics. Example: "The museum displayed an impressive specimen of a rare dinosaur fossil that attracted many visitors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Nor was he an impressive specimen.

The New Yorker

An impressive specimen is due to go up on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace on Wednesday (3 December), while Downing Street's 20ft tree is due to be delivered in the first week of December and have its lights switched on the following week.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Granted, a single mosquito isn't a physically impressive specimen.

The Guardian

As a workaround Jayson had trudged into the fields earlier that day, burying a particularly impressive specimen in camera-friendly location.

The Guardian

They passed many species they had already collected for the Millennium project — maple-leaved vibernum, steeplebush with spiky stalks of tiny pink flowers, black birch — as well as a particularly impressive specimen of that quintessential Staten Island forest dweller, Automobilius burnedouticus.

The New York Times

CSM: I mean, this is a really impressive specimen.

Huffington Post

The silverback was in every way an impressive physical specimen.

The New York Times

"He was an impressive physical specimen before, but he has found a new gear," Guggenheim said.

Huffington Post

"Granted, I myself am not an impressive physical specimen, but I sense the offensive and defensive lines are not physical enough.

Huffington Post

As fans of Lee Child's Jack Reacher series know, Reacher is an impressive physical specimen, built like an elite defensive end, 6 foot 5, 250 pounds with a "six-pack like a cobbled city street".

Los Angeles Times

Walter had a yen for the larger more impressive specimens, which, according to Margery, gave him "a good return for his money".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an impressive specimen" to describe physical objects, scientific findings, or individuals who exhibit remarkable qualities or characteristics.

Common error

Avoid using "an impressive specimen" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler, more direct language would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an impressive specimen" functions as a noun phrase, where "impressive" is an adjective modifying the noun "specimen". Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an impressive specimen" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something or someone noteworthy. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, with examples from news and scientific sources. While versatile, the phrase is best suited for neutral to formal contexts, such as describing findings or remarkable individuals. For similar meaning, consider alternatives like "a remarkable example" or "an outstanding example".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a remarkable example

This alternative highlights the exceptional nature of the specimen as a representative of its kind.

an outstanding example

Similar to "remarkable example", this emphasizes the superior quality or characteristic of the specimen.

a striking instance

This focuses on the visual impact and how the specimen stands out.

a prime example

Indicates that the specimen is a leading or best instance of its category.

a noteworthy case

This suggests that the specimen is significant and deserves attention or study.

a significant item

This indicates that the specimen holds importance in a particular context.

a superb model

Suggests the specimen serves as an excellent representation for study or emulation.

a fine object

This focuses on the superior quality and craftsmanship of the specimen.

a choice item

Implies that the specimen was carefully selected or is of high value.

a terrific piece

This conveys strong approval and appreciation for the specimen's qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "an impressive specimen" in a sentence?

You can use "an impressive specimen" to describe something that is remarkable or of high quality. For example, "The museum displayed "an impressive specimen" of a dinosaur fossil."

What are some alternatives to "an impressive specimen"?

Alternatives include "a remarkable example", "an outstanding example", or "a striking instance", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "an impressive specimen" when describing a person?

Yes, it can be used to describe a person, but be mindful of the context. It is often used to describe someone with remarkable physical attributes or achievements, but can sound formal or even humorous in certain situations.

What is the difference between "an impressive specimen" and "an impressive example"?

"An impressive specimen" typically refers to a single item or individual that is remarkable, while "an impressive example" refers to something that serves as a good representation of a broader category or concept. The phrases are nearly interchangeable but the slight changes should be considered.