under the impression

USAGE SUMMARY

"under the impression" is a commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to an idea or opinion that someone has formed based on incomplete or doubtful information. Example: I was under the impression that the event had been cancelled, but it turned out to still be on.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are under the impression that success grows infinitely.

Independent

"I was under the impression that they were theirs".

The New York Times - Arts

"They're under the impression that everybody's on the take".

The New York Times

I was under the impression he was dead.

The Guardian - Sport

I'm under the impression that phyllo is hard to get".

The New York Times - Food

Keith [Richards] was under the impression that I'd remixed them.

The Guardian - Music

"I was under the impression it was something like 25%.

The Guardian - Money

You're under the impression that "crimbo" refers to Christmas.

The Guardian

Developers are under the impression that the implementation of the IBS is accompanied by high costs.

Procedia Engineering

They are already under the impression that no one cares for them.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Tribunal was under the impression that it had already been read over.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under the impression" to politely convey that someone's understanding may be incorrect, softening the potential for disagreement or offense.

Common error

Avoid using "under the impression" when stating a known fact. This phrase is best reserved for expressing beliefs that might be inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under the impression" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating a state of belief or assumption. It typically introduces a clause that explains what the subject believes to be true. Ludwig examples illustrate its common usage in expressing potentially incorrect assumptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "under the impression" is a very common phrase used to express a belief or assumption, often with a hint of uncertainty or potential incorrectness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. When writing, use this phrase to politely introduce a potentially inaccurate belief, but avoid using it when stating known facts. Related phrases like "with the understanding" or "assuming" can be used as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Always ensure the context aligns with the phrase's primary function to avoid misuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under the assumption

Similar meaning, but more focused on the initial assumption rather than the continuing state.

with the understanding

Emphasizes an agreement or assumption as a basis for action, making it slightly more formal.

operating under the assumption

Highlights that actions are based on a specific assumption, adding a layer of analysis.

in the belief that

Highlights the belief as the primary reason for a decision or action, making it more emphatic.

with the idea that

Implies a plan or intention based on a specific idea.

believing

A simpler and more direct way to express a belief, lacking the nuance of potential incorrectness.

assuming

Similar to "believing" but implies less certainty and more speculation.

taking it for granted that

Suggests the belief is unquestioned or assumed without careful consideration.

thinking

A general term for having an opinion or belief, often less formal.

labouring under the delusion

Suggests a stronger degree of error or self-deception in the belief.

FAQs

How can I use "under the impression" in a sentence?

Use "under the impression" to express a belief or assumption, often one that turns out to be incorrect. For example, "I was under the impression that the meeting was cancelled."

What can I say instead of "under the impression"?

You can use alternatives like "with the understanding", "assuming", or "believing", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I am under the impression" or "I was under the impression"?

Both "I am under the impression" and "I was under the impression" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. Use "I am" for current beliefs and "I was" for past beliefs.

What is the difference between "under the impression" and "under the assumption"?

"Under the assumption" is very similar to "under the impression", but it suggests that the belief is more of a foundational premise than a vague feeling. Use "under the assumption" when something is based upon an assumption, use "under the impression" when you want to express your belief.