imposant
impressive
Making a grand and impressive impression, often because of size, appearance, power, or achievement.
EXAMPLE
Die Kathedrale war ein wirklich imposantes Bauwerk.
The cathedral was a truly impressive structure.
imposant
impressive
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'imposant' (impressive) belongs to the same word family as the verb 'imponieren' (to impress). If something 'imponiert' (impresses you), then you find it 'imposant' (impressive). Note the different sentence structure: something is 'imposant' (impressive), but something 'imponiert jemandem' (impresses someone; dative).
EXAMPLE
Die riesige Brücke ist wirklich imposant.
The huge bridge is truly impressive.
Typical collocations
'Imposant' (impressive) is often used to describe large or striking things. Typical nouns include buildings, natural phenomena, or even abstract achievements.
EXAMPLE
Vom Gipfel aus hatten wir eine imposante Aussicht auf die Berge.
From the summit, we had an impressive view of the mountains.
Register and style
The word 'imposant' (impressive) belongs to an elevated style of language. It is often found in travel guides, art reviews, or written language to express admiration.
EXAMPLE
Die Ausstellung zeigte eine imposante Sammlung moderner Kunst.
The exhibition showed an impressive collection of modern art.
Compare with
imposant vs beeindruckend
impressive
Beeindruckend and imposant both describe a powerful effect. Beeindruckend is broader and can refer, for example, to quality or achievement. Imposant usually emphasizes size, appearance, strength, or a powerful outward effect; it is therefore especially suitable for something large and magnificent in appearance.
imposant
Mit ihren riesigen Pfeilern wirkt die neue Brücke imposant.
With its enormous pillars, the new bridge looks imposing.
beeindruckend
Die präzise Bauweise der neuen Brücke ist beeindruckend.
The precise construction of the new bridge is impressive.
In real life
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