left an impression

USAGE SUMMARY

"left an impression" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about leaving a lasting effect on someone or something. For example: "His inspiring speech left an impression on the audience long after he was done speaking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The upset left an impression.

The New York Times - Sports

It left an impression on me".

The New York Times - Sports

The Trump touch left an impression.

The New Yorker

The book left an impression.

The Guardian

That left an impression with Rangers General Manager Glen Sather.

The New York Times - Sports

The tensions left an impression on him.

The New York Times

That left an impression on me.

The New York Times - Travel

I think I left an impression.

The New York Times - Sports

Clearly the effect left an impression on me.

The New York Times

He played varsity only two years, but left an impression.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Smith's column clearly left an impression on Mr. Bloomberg.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "left an impression" to describe situations where something or someone had a notable and memorable effect on someone's thoughts or feelings. Ensure the context clearly indicates what or who is leaving the impression and on whom.

Common error

Avoid using "left an impression" when a more direct verb would be clearer. For example, instead of "An impression was left by the speech", write "The speech left an impression".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "left an impression" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate to describe the effect something or someone has had on another person. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to convey a lasting effect. For example, 'The book left an impression'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "left an impression" is a commonly used phrase that indicates a notable effect or impact on someone's thoughts or feelings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It's most frequently found in News & Media contexts. When writing, ensure the phrase is used in an active voice for clarity and consider alternative expressions like "made a mark" or "had a lasting impact" to add nuance. Remember that while the phrase itself is neutral, its implication can be either positive or negative, depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had a lasting impact

This alternative emphasizes the duration and significance of the effect.

had a profound effect

This alternative highlights the depth and significance of the impact.

made a mark

This alternative suggests a noticeable effect or influence, often emphasizing a deliberate action.

influenced greatly

This alternative highlights the power to change or affect someone or something.

etched itself in memory

This alternative conveys a lasting and unforgettable presence in one's mind.

resonated deeply

This alternative emphasizes a strong emotional or intellectual connection and lasting effect.

stuck with someone

This alternative suggests a memorable or impactful experience that remains in someone's thoughts.

created a sensation

This alternative suggests a strong, often immediate, and widespread reaction.

registered strongly

This alternative emphasizes that something was clearly and noticeably perceived.

made a splash

This alternative implies a noticeable and often exciting entry or appearance.

FAQs

How can I use "left an impression" in a sentence?

Use "left an impression" to indicate that someone or something had a significant effect on someone's mind or feelings. For example, "The speaker's powerful message "left an impression" on everyone in the audience".

What are some alternatives to "left an impression"?

You can use alternatives like "made a mark", "had a lasting impact", or "created a sensation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "left a good impression" or "left an impression"?

Both are correct, but "left a good impression" specifies the nature of the impression. "Left an impression" is neutral and simply indicates that an effect was made, without specifying if it was positive or negative.

What's the difference between "left an impression" and "made an impact"?

"Left an impression" often refers to a more personal or emotional effect, while "made an impact" can refer to a broader or more tangible effect. They are often interchangeable, but the specific context may favor one over the other.