from what impression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "from what impression" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It could be used when discussing the source or basis of a particular impression or opinion, but it would require additional context for clarity. Example: "From what impression I gathered during the meeting, the project is on track for completion."

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

From what impression, then, is it derived?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hume famously argues that, in order to clarify any idea, "we need but enquire, from what impression is that supposed idea derived" (EHU, 22).

SEP

Hume would put the point in terms of the Way of Ideas as follows: we must determine from what impression our idea of causation is copied.

SEP

If we suspect that "any philosophical term has no idea annexed to it", Hume suggests, we can always ask "from what impression that pretended idea is derived?" (TA, 7/648 9) If no impression can be produced, we must conclude "the term is altogether insignificant" (TA, 7/ 648).

SEP

In this regard, consider Hume's assertion that, if we are unsure about the meaning of a word, "we need but enquire, from what impression is that supposed idea derived?" (Hume [1748] 1975, 22), and his recommendation that we abandon words that lack such derivations.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

If I was someone from a different world what impression would I get seeing it for the first time?

WikiHow

Worrying about what other people think or what impression I make on others detracts from this experience.

Huffington Post

In an interview in 1983, Brownjohn was asked what impression he would like people to take away from his poems.

The Guardian - Books

What impression is left?

The New Yorker

What impression does this story leave?

The Guardian - Opinion

What impression were they left with?

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "from what impression", ensure the context clearly indicates whose impression you are referring to. This avoids ambiguity and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "from what impression" without specifying the source or individual holding the impression. This can lead to confusion about whose perspective is being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "from what impression" functions as an interrogative phrase used to inquire about the origin or basis of a particular impression or understanding. Ludwig shows it's frequently used when seeking the reason behind someone's opinion or conclusion.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "from what impression" serves as an interrogative tool to explore the basis of someone's understanding or opinion. While grammatically sound, Ludwig suggests that it is not the most common phrasing and may benefit from contextual clarity. Its presence across academic, news, and encyclopedic sources indicates a degree of formal and analytical usage. Alternative phrasing, such as "what is the source of that impression" or "what gives you that impression", might offer greater directness and clarity depending on the intended audience and context. Therefore, while acceptable, judicious use and awareness of alternative expressions can enhance communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what impression does it stem from

Changes the structure to emphasize the origin or source of the impression.

what is the source of that impression

Replaces "from what" with "what is the source", making the question more direct.

where does that impression originate

Uses "originate" to inquire about the beginning or derivation of the impression.

what gives you that impression

Focuses on the cause or reason behind the impression.

how did you arrive at that impression

Emphasizes the process or path leading to the formation of the impression.

on what basis is that impression formed

Highlights the foundation or grounds upon which the impression is built.

what leads you to believe that

Shifts the focus to the belief or conviction resulting from the impression.

what evidence supports that impression

Asks for concrete evidence or proof backing up the impression.

what is the foundation of that idea

Broadens the scope to the foundation of an idea, which is similar to an impression.

how did you come to that conclusion

Explores the process of reaching a conclusion, akin to forming an impression.

FAQs

How can I use "from what impression" in a sentence?

You can use "from what impression" to inquire about the basis of a particular idea or feeling. For example, "From what impression did you conclude the project was failing?"

What phrases are similar to "from what impression"?

Alternatives include phrases like "what is the source of", "what gives you the impression", or "how did you arrive at" depending on the specific context.

Is "from what impression" grammatically correct?

While grammatically acceptable, "from what impression" might sound slightly awkward to some. It's more common to use phrases like "based on what I gather" or "according to my understanding".

When is it best to use "from what impression" over other alternatives?

Use "from what impression" when you want to specifically inquire about the origin of someone's understanding or feeling, particularly when the source isn't immediately obvious. However, be mindful of clarity and consider rephrasing for smoother communication.