What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
appearances
Example
She always takes great care in her appearances, making sure she looks presentable. [appearances: noun]
Example
The appearances of the house were deceiving; it looked beautiful from the outside but was in need of repairs. [appearances: plural noun]
impression
Example
His confident and friendly demeanor made a good impression on the interviewers. [impression: noun]
Example
The movie left a lasting impression on me; I couldn't stop thinking about it for days. [impression: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Appearance is more commonly used than impression in everyday language. Appearance is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, such as describing someone's physical appearance or the visual presentation of an object. Impression is less common and is often used in specific situations where the impact or perception of someone or something is emphasized.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between appearances and impression?
While appearance can be used in both formal and informal contexts, impression is generally associated with a more formal tone. Impression is often used in professional settings, such as job interviews or business interactions, to discuss the impact or perception someone leaves on others.
