words for describing someone or something that impresses you► impressive · The rich variety of animal life we found was very impressive.· Alan Howard has been impressive in "Henry IV' at the National Theatre.· You can visit the desert as part of an impressive 5-day excursion out of the city.· He gave an impressive performance of Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No 3.
► imposing a building or part of a building that is imposing is big and impressive: · An imposing staircase led out of the hall.· The show took place outside the imposing Central Library building on Fifth Avenue.· It's one of the most distinguished hotels in Italy, grand and imposing.
► dazzling impressive, especially because of being extremely skilfully done, having an unusually beautiful appearance etc - used especially in news reports: · During his short but dazzling career he broke almost every scoring record in the National League.· She looked dazzling, with her long blonde hair and diamond earrings.
► striking impressive, especially because of being very unusual to look at: · From the outside, the most striking aspect of the building is its tall, slender tower.· It's a tall plant with striking red flowers in early spring.· The face in the photograph was striking - good-looking and vivacious.
► awe-inspiring so big and impressive that you feel slightly nervous: · The pyramids at dawn were an awe-inspiring sight.· The canyon was so awe-inspiring that even Dan was speechless.
► breathtaking very impressive and exciting, especially as a result of great speed, size, or beauty: · The bank's new on-line service is still growing at a breathtaking pace.· The drive along the beach and up the mountain is truly breathtaking.· The guest house was on the side of the cliff, with breathtaking views of the ocean below.
► grand made or done in order to impress people: · The conferences always take place in grand hotels, away from the realities of life.· They always make grand promises to the biggest group of voters.
► majestic very impressive because of being very big and beautiful: · the majestic mountains of the Himalayas· Tintern Abbey is noted for its majestic arches, fine doorways and elegant windows.
► spectacular something such as a view or a performance that is spectacular is very impressive and exciting to look at or watch: · The campground in Emerald Bay State Park has a spectacular setting.· To celebrate independence day, there was a spectacular fireworks display.