leave a lasting impression

Meaning

This expression means to make a strong, highly memorable impact on someone that they will remember for a very long time. It is frequently used for outstanding performances, beautiful art, or influential people.

Examples

• Her breathtaking performance in the drama series left a lasting impression on the critics.

  Her breathtaking performance in the drama series left a lasting impression on the critics.

• The museum's grand architecture is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.

  The museum's grand architecture is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.

• He wanted to leave a lasting impression during his audition, so he sang an original song.

  He wanted to leave a lasting impression during his audition, so he sang an original song.

• That powerful documentary left a lasting impression on me, changing how I view the environment.

  That powerful documentary left a lasting impression on me, changing how I view the environment.

• Even though he only had a minor role, the actor managed to leave a lasting impression.

  Even though he only had a minor role, the actor managed to leave a lasting impression.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The show made a lasting impression to the audience.

  ✓ The show left a lasting impression on the audience.

  The standard collocation is to 'leave' (not make) an impression 'on' (not to) someone.

• ✗ I want to lose a lasting impression at the job interview.

  ✓ I want to leave a lasting impression at the job interview.

  The correct verb is 'leave'. 'Lose' means to misplace something, which is the opposite of what is intended.

Related Expressions

Practice

• A great actor always aims to ___ on the audience during a live play.

  💡 To make a deep, unforgettable impact.

  Show answer

  leave a lasting impression

• The beautiful soundtrack of the film is bound to ___.

  💡 Be remembered by viewers for a very long time.

  Show answer

  leave a lasting impression