an initial impression of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an initial impression of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's first thoughts or feelings about a person, place, or situation. Example: "After meeting the team, my initial impression of the company was very positive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The Williamsburg bar gives an initial impression of austerity, but its vibrant menu puts that notion to rest.

The New Yorker

Propped on narrow wooden shelves, works extend from floor to ceiling, affording an initial impression of wonderful creative fertility.

The New York Times - Arts

Although much rinpa-style work may convey an initial impression of spareness, especially when isolated in a gallery, it is defined by its decorative aplomb.

The New York Times - Arts

The group gave an initial impression of contentment with their lot, as demonstrated by their carefree dancing, which had the fullness and vibrancy of vintage Lubovitch.

The New Yorker

Nearly 400 drawings by artists who have previously exhibited at this valuable institution over the last 25 years create an initial impression of wondrous creative fertility.

The New York Times - Arts

But despite an initial impression of chaos, you will find smooth roads and a full range of hotels and restaurants serving hearty local fare.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

As an initial impression, our finding of global presynaptic/postsynaptic up-regulation (receptors, transporter, turnover) might then suggest an overwhelming increase in 5HT function.

Environmental Health Perspectives

At the time of the registry data collection, physicians were asked to make a distinction between AMI and unstable angina/non-Q-wave myocardial infarction when making an initial impression before results of any cardiac biomarkers were obtained.

BMJ Open

And as a substitute for lost power, a nuisance policy on all fronts, while it can make an initial impression, will not restore the prestige of a clay-footed colossus.

Forbes

Moving closer, he discovered that the colors came from drapes, a couch and a fireplace, but the initial impression of ungrounded light and color remained a fascinating touchstone.

The New York Times - Arts

One explanation is the "halo effect", where our initial impression of a person causes a bias in all our other assessments of them.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an initial impression of" to introduce a viewpoint or expectation that might be further developed or challenged later in the text.

Common error

Avoid presenting "an initial impression of" something as a definitive conclusion. Always indicate that it is a preliminary view that may evolve.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an initial impression of" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a preliminary assessment or feeling about something. Ludwig AI confirms this through its examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an initial impression of" is a grammatically correct and useful phrase for expressing a preliminary assessment or feeling. According to Ludwig AI, it’s suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and scientific writing. While "an initial impression of" isn't extremely common, it's a versatile phrase to introduce a viewpoint that may evolve. Remember to clarify that it's a preliminary view, and consider using alternatives like "a first glimpse of" for varied writing. By understanding the nuances and contexts, you can effectively integrate "an initial impression of" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial sense of

Uses "sense" instead of "impression", which highlights a feeling or intuition about something.

a first glimpse of

Replaces "impression" with "glimpse", emphasizing a brief or partial view.

an early perception of

Substitutes "impression" with "perception", focusing on the initial understanding or awareness.

a preliminary assessment of

Replaces "impression" with "assessment", highlighting an initial evaluation or judgment.

a nascent view of

Replaces the word "initial" with "nascent", implying the perspective is just beginning to form.

a starting viewpoint on

Emphasizes a new or initial perspective on a subject.

a quick read of

Offers an informal option for describing an initial understanding, implying a fast interpretation.

the first take on

Conveys the same meaning using more informal and concise phrasing.

a superficial observation of

Highlights an initial, potentially incomplete or shallow, understanding.

a basic understanding of

Focuses on the primary stage of comprehension or knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "an initial impression of" in a sentence?

You can use "an initial impression of" to describe your first thoughts or feelings about something. For example, "My "an initial impression of" the new city was that it was very vibrant".

What are some alternatives to "an initial impression of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a first glimpse of", "an early perception of", or "a preliminary assessment of", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "an initial impression of" in formal writing?

Yes, "an initial impression of" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to express a preliminary viewpoint. However, for more formal writing, avoid using contractions, slang, or overly colloquial expressions.

What is the difference between "an initial impression of" and "a first impression of"?

While both phrases are very similar, ""an initial impression of"" may subtly imply a more considered or thoughtful first perception, whereas "a first impression of" can be more immediate or instinctive.