Translation guide
How to express that someone or something makes a good impression in Japanese. The most common and natural ways are 好印象 (こういんしょう) and 良い印象 (よいいんしょう).
He made a good impression at the interview.
A slightly more literal version using 良い (good) instead of 好 (good). Equally natural but 好印象 is more common in set phrases.
Her smile makes a good impression.
Used to describe that the impression itself is good. Often used when stating your impression of something.
This restaurant gives a good impression.
To receive a good impression, i.e., to be impressed favorably. Focuses on the receiver's perspective.
I got a good impression from his presentation.
To emphasize that someone or something leaves a lasting good impression.
Literally 'to leave a good impression'. Used when the impression remains after an encounter.
He left a good impression when we first met.
To express that you personally have a good impression of someone or something.
To have a good impression. Often used with ～に対して (towards).
I have a good impression of him.
Same meaning but using 好印象. Slightly more formal or written.
Specifically about the first impression being good.
好印象 (こういんしょう) is a compound noun meaning 'good impression' and is very common in set phrases like 好印象を与える. 良い印象 (よい/いい いんしょう) is more analytical and can be used in the same contexts, but 好印象 is slightly more idiomatic and frequent in business or formal settings. Both are natural.
To say something 'leaves an impression' (not necessarily good), use 印象に残る (いんしょうにのこる). To specify a good impression, use 好印象を残す or 良い印象を残す.
The interviewer seemed to have a good impression of the applicant.
Her first impression was a good one.