Translation guide
The English verb 'impress' covers a range of intentions, from making a strong positive impact to leaving a mark or instilling a feeling. Japanese uses different verbs and expressions depending on what you want to convey.
To cause someone to feel admiration, respect, or approval because of something you do, say, or are.
Literally 'to move someone emotionally'. Used when something deeply touches or inspires someone, often in a positive way.
彼のスピーチは聴衆を感動させた。
His speech impressed the audience.
To make someone admire or be impressed by your skill, effort, or quality. Often used when someone is impressed by an ability or achievement.
彼女の料理の腕前に感心した。
I was impressed by her cooking skills.
To leave a strong impression, often intentionally. Can be used for both positive and negative impressions.
彼は面接官に良い印象を与えた。
He made a good impression on the interviewer.
To be memorable or leave a lasting impression. Often used to describe something that stands out.
あの映画のラストシーンはとても印象に残った。
The final scene of that movie really impressed me (stayed with me).
To make someone understand the importance or seriousness of something.
To stress the importance of something. A direct and clear way to express this meaning.
先生は安全の重要性を強調した。
The teacher impressed upon us the importance of safety.
To take something to heart; to impress something firmly on one's mind. A more idiomatic and formal expression.
彼の言葉を肝に銘じてください。
Please take his words to heart.
To press something onto a surface, leaving a mark or pattern.
To engrave, stamp, or imprint a design or mark onto a surface.
指輪に名前を刻印した。
I had my name impressed on the ring.
To press or stamp. Used for seals, stamps, or pressing something onto a surface.
書類に判子を押した。
I impressed the seal on the document.
The verb 印象する is not commonly used in Japanese. Instead, use phrases like 印象を与える (to give an impression) or 印象に残る (to leave an impression).
彼は良い印象を与えた。
He made a good impression.
感動 is about being emotionally moved or touched, while 感心 is about admiration for someone's skill or effort. Use 感動 for art, stories, or acts of kindness; use 感心 for abilities, cleverness, or hard work.