distinct impression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinct impression" is correct and usable in written English.
You would use it when you want to describe something that is easily noticed or to emphasize that something stands out. For example: "I got the distinct impression that she was not happy to see me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He gave the distinct impression he would not mind a return to the Premier League.

The New York Times - Sports

As she talks, I get the distinct impression that she's given this speech before.

The Guardian - Music

One gets the distinct impression he would like it leashed again, and pronto.

The Guardian - Books

The elder Burkes made a distinct impression on Bill, Stephen and Frank's generation.

The New York Times

He came away with the distinct impression that Wilpon was weakening in his support for him.

The New York Times - Sports

"I had the distinct impression that death was Jewish," he tells us.

The Guardian - Books

You get the distinct impression of strategic recalibration in the face of controversy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Afterward, you have the distinct impression he wanted you to refuse.

The New Yorker

Williams has yet to make a distinct impression on at least one of his teammates, however.

The New York Times

Each room in the exhibition space has been planned to create a distinct impression.

The New York Times - Arts

"Flying over for this speech, I had the distinct impression that the Atlantic is getting wider.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distinct impression" to articulate a clear and noticeable feeling or perception you've gained, especially when you want to emphasize its impact or significance. For instance: "After the meeting, I had the "distinct impression" that the deal would not go through."

Common error

Avoid using "distinct impression" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your phrasing by using alternatives like "clear perception" or "obvious sense" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinct impression" functions as a subjective assessment, indicating a personal feeling or understanding derived from an experience or observation. According to Ludwig AI, it's used to describe something easily noticed or to emphasize that something stands out. This is shown in Ludwig's examples, where the phrase often precedes a statement of belief or interpretation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distinct impression" is a versatile expression used to convey a subjective understanding or feeling derived from an experience. As Ludwig AI notes, it is used to describe something easily noticed or to emphasize that something stands out. Analysis of example sentences reveals its prevalence in News & Media sources, indicating its utility in conveying observations and interpretations. While grammatically correct and widely used, it is advisable to vary phrasing in highly formal contexts to maintain a professional tone. Alternatives such as "clear perception" or "palpable sense" can offer nuanced substitutions. The phrase serves to preface an opinion or conclusion, allowing the speaker or writer to express their understanding while acknowledging its subjective nature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

palpable sense

Emphasizes that the feeling is so strong it is almost physically perceptible.

definite sense

Highlights a feeling that is certain and unwavering.

unequivocal sense

Stresses the lack of ambiguity in the feeling or understanding.

clear perception

Emphasizes clarity of understanding rather than a general feeling.

obvious feeling

Suggests that the emotion is easily perceived by others.

strong feeling

Focuses on the intensity of the emotion or awareness.

vivid sensation

Highlights the intensity and clarity of the sensory experience.

marked effect

Similar to noticeable impact, emphasizing the visibility of the consequence.

noticeable impact

Shifts focus from perception to the observable effect or influence.

tangible influence

Conveys that the impact can be easily perceived or measured.

FAQs

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

You can use "distinct impression" to describe a clear and noticeable feeling or perception. For example, "I got the "distinct impression" that she was unhappy with the decision."

What's a good alternative to "distinct impression"?

Alternatives include "clear perception", "definite sense", or "palpable sense", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "distinct impression" or "vague impression"?

"Distinct impression" indicates a clear and noticeable feeling, while "vague impression" suggests an unclear or uncertain feeling. The better choice depends on the accuracy of your description of the feeling.

What is the difference between "distinct impression" and "general feeling"?

A "distinct impression" suggests a clear and specific perception, whereas "general feeling" implies a more vague or less defined sense. The former is more assertive and precise than the latter.