makes a striking impression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'makes a striking impression' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to an item or person that leaves a strong and/or powerful impression. For example, "Her vibrant green eyes make a striking impression that won't soon be forgotten."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The intricate confusion of water and buildings makes a striking impression either by day or by night.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A neat rectangular slab of tuna tartare makes a striking impression, iced on top with a cool slush of wasabi-fired cucumber.

The New York Times - Food

Ms. Kim, who gives her age as over 50, still has a dancer's erect carriage, and she makes a striking impression, with her red nails, matching lipstick and streaked hair swept off her face with a rhinestone hairclip.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The orchestra made a striking impression on its own.

The New York Times - Arts

One of them - two years younger than Orwell, talkative and lively - made a striking impression.

The Guardian - Books

Positioned between Carter's twin peaks, Sean Shepherd's three "Preludes" made a striking impression with their economy and individualistic language.

The New York Times - Arts

"I'll always remember the fact that she made a striking impression on me, with her long black hair".

The New York Times

Seldes worked in television from 1952 but always felt most at home on stage, and made a striking impression in Jean Giraudoux's Ondine, starring Audrey Hepburn and Mel Ferrer, in 1954.

The Guardian

Burke's French edition of Cérémonies (1723-1743) is comprised of 9 folio volumes that together make a striking impression as evidence of the eighteenth-century Europe's encyclopedic labors.

Columbia University

They instantly make a striking impression (not least for the ingenious zombie 'nightclub' they've installed in one of the trucks), indicating there will be much to look forward to when the series returns in the autumn.

Independent

This Iranian-French co-production about a repressive father and his daughters is the work of Samira Makhmalbaf, the 17-year-old daughter of the Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf, whose artful "Gabbeh" made a striking impression at the festival in 1996.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makes a striking impression" to describe something or someone that immediately attracts attention and is memorable due to its distinctiveness or impact. It's effective when emphasizing initial reactions or visual appeal.

Common error

Avoid using "makes a striking impression" for ordinary or unremarkable things. This dilutes the phrase's impact and can sound exaggerated or insincere. Reserve it for genuinely noteworthy subjects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makes a striking impression" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used to highlight something or someone that is visually appealing, memorable, or impactful. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "makes a striking impression" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe something or someone that is visually appealing or impactful. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for describing initial reactions and visual appeal, and our analysis shows it's frequently found in news and media. Remember to use it judiciously, reserving it for subjects that truly stand out, and to consider alternative phrases like "creates a memorable impact" for a more formal tone. Avoid overuse with mundane subjects to maintain its intended effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

creates a memorable impact

Focuses more on the lasting effect of the impression.

leaves a strong mark

Emphasizes the power and influence of the impression.

has a powerful effect

Highlights the impact and forcefulness of the impression.

projects a vivid image

Focuses on the clarity and distinctness of the impression.

gives a remarkable effect

Stresses the noteworthy nature of the effect produced.

produces a noteworthy image

Highlights the image's significance.

engenders a lasting feeling

Focuses on a feeling that endures over time.

forms a strong memory

Centers around the act of creating a potent memory.

exudes remarkable charisma

Centers on the expression of remarkable personal magnetism.

displays commanding presence

Centers around the demonstration of a presence that compels attention.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "makes a striking impression" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you might consider phrases like "creates a memorable impact" or "leaves a strong mark", which convey a similar meaning with increased sophistication.

Is it correct to say "made a striking impression" instead of "makes a striking impression"?

Yes, using "made a striking impression" is correct when referring to something that happened in the past. For example, "Her performance made a striking impression on the audience".

What's the difference between "makes a striking impression" and "makes a good impression"?

"Makes a striking impression" emphasizes the visual or immediate impact, whereas "makes a good impression" focuses on creating a positive perception or favorable judgment.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "makes a striking impression"?

This phrase is well-suited for describing art, architecture, personal style, or any situation where visual or immediate impact is significant. It is often used in reviews, descriptions, and character portrayals.