Translation guide
The English word "impressions" can refer to a wide range of concepts, from initial feelings and opinions to marks left on a surface. This guide focuses on the most common meanings for English-speaking learners of Japanese, organized by practical use.
What is your impression?
First impressions are important.
Expressing a first impression, a general feeling, or an opinion formed after encountering someone or something.
The most direct and common translation for 'impression' as a feeling or opinion. Used in a wide range of contexts.
First impressions are very important.
A more casual way to say 'feeling' or 'impression'. Often used in spoken Japanese.
Often used for 'image' or 'impression' in the sense of a mental picture or reputation. Common in business and casual contexts.
Referring to physical impressions, such as footprints, fingerprints, or dents.
General word for marks, traces, or impressions left behind. Can be used for footprints, scars, etc.
Doing an impression of a famous person or character, often for comedy.
Describing the lasting impression or impact something has on you, often emotional or memorable.
印象 (inshō) is the most direct translation for 'impression' as an opinion or feeling. 感じ (kanji) is more casual and sensory, like 'vibe' or 'feel'. イメージ (imēji) often refers to a mental image or reputation. Choose based on formality and nuance.
What was your impression of him?
I like the feel of this room.
I get the impression that he is kind.
この会社のイメージは良いです。
This company has a good image/impression.
What kind of impression do you have?
雪に足跡が残っていた。
There were footprints left in the snow.
Tire tracks are left on the road.
A more formal or technical term for traces, vestiges, or impressions. Often used in written or scientific contexts.
No traces of the culprit were found.
Specifically refers to an engraved mark, stamp, or impression made by carving or pressing. Used for seals, stamps, or embossing.
There is an engraving on the ring.
The standard term for mimicry or doing impressions of someone's voice or mannerisms.
He is good at doing impressions of celebrities.
A more technical term for vocal mimicry, often used in the context of voice acting or professional impersonation.
He is active as a vocal impressionist comedian.
A deep impression, often inspiring or moving. Used for profound experiences.
I was deeply impressed by that movie.
Being emotionally moved or touched. Similar to 'impressed' in an emotional sense.
I was moved by his performance.
A common phrase meaning 'to leave an impression' or 'to be memorable'.
His words left a strong impression on me.
My first impression was a gloomy feeling, but after talking, my image of him changed to a cheerful one.
When referring to mimicking someone, do not use 印象 (inshō). Use 物まね (monomane) instead. Saying 印象をする is incorrect.
He did an impression of the company president.