“Impressed With” vs. “Impressed By” – Expressing Admiration Accurately
When we express our admiration for someone or something, we often use the word “impressed.”
However, there is sometimes uncertainty about whether to follow it with “with” or “by.” Let’s clarify the correct usage of these phrases.
Quick Summary
Both “impressed with” and “impressed by” are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the specific context of the sentence.
“Impressed With” vs. “Impressed By” – Which is Correct?
The prepositions “with” and “by” can both follow the adjective “impressed,” and their usage can depend on the sentence structure or the speaker’s dialect. Here’s a quick guide:
Phrase | When to Use | Example |
---|---|---|
Impressed with | When referring to a specific quality or aspect | I am impressed with your attention to detail. |
Impressed by | When referring to the overall impact something or someone has made | I was impressed by the performance. |
How to Use “Impressed With”
“Impressed with” tends to be used when focusing on a particular attribute or detail. Here are examples of how to use it:
“She was impressed with the chef’s ability to combine flavors.”
“I’m really impressed with the new design of the website.”
How to Use “Impressed By”
“Impressed by” is often used when speaking about the general effect or impression something or someone has made. Examples include:
“We were all impressed by his honesty and integrity.”
“The judges were impressed by the contestants’ level of skill.”
Practice Exercises
Choose the correct preposition to complete the sentences:
- The investors were _ (impressed with/impressed by) the startup’s rapid growth.
- I’m _ (impressed with/impressed by) how quickly you learned to play the piano.
- The audience was _ (impressed with/impressed by) the singer’s vocal range.
- He was _ (impressed with/impressed by) the thoroughness of the report.
- Visitors are often _ (impressed with/impressed by) the city’s vibrant culture.
Answer Key:
- impressed by
- impressed with
- impressed by
- impressed with
- impressed by
Conclusion
Whether you are “impressed with” a particular aspect or “impressed by” the overall effect, both expressions are correct and convey a sense of admiration. The nuances between the two can be subtle, and in many cases, they are used interchangeably. Understanding these variations allows for more nuanced expression of praise and admiration.