Yìnxiàng

Yìnxiàng (印象) is a Chinese noun that denotes an impression or image formed in the mind by perception, experience, or memory. It can refer to a mental image, a remembered trace, or a person’s public image and reputation.

Etymology and scope: The term combines 印 (to print or imprint) and 象 (image, appearance, phenomenon), conveying something imprinted on the mind. In modern Chinese, yìnxiàng is widely used to translate the English word “impression” across psychology, art, literature, media, and everyday speech.

Usage and expressions: Common phrases include 给人留下印象 (to leave an impression on someone), 印象深刻 or 印象难忘 (deep or lasting impression), and 对某人/某事有初步印象 (have a preliminary impression of someone/something). In cultural contexts, 印象派 refers to Impressionism, and an impressionistic style in writing or painting is described as 以印象派笔法呈现 or 以印象派风格描写.

Relation to memory and image: An impression is typically a perceptual or cognitive outcome of a moment of contact with stimuli, whereas memory denotes the later recollection of that event. In social and public spheres, 印象 can describe a person’s outward image or persona, which may be shaped through communication, media, and behavior—often discussed as managing or presenting a favorable public impression.

See also: 印象派; 印象深刻; 给人留下印象.