Formidable describes a person or thing that is so powerful or impressive that it commands respect and creates a sense of difficulty.
Palavra em 30 segundos
- Used to describe something powerful or intimidating.
- Implies a high level of respect and challenge.
- Commonly paired with nouns like opponent, task, or reputation.
Overview
The word 'formidable' carries a weight of respect mixed with a sense of intimidation. It originates from the Latin 'formidabilis,' meaning 'causing fear.' In modern English, it is used to describe anything that demands serious attention because it is powerful, large, or exceptionally capable. Whether describing a physical opponent or a complex intellectual problem, the word implies that the subject is not to be taken lightly.
Usage Patterns
'Formidable' is almost exclusively used as an adjective modifying a noun. Common structures include 'a formidable opponent,' 'a formidable challenge,' or 'a formidable task.' It often follows a linking verb, such as 'The task proved formidable' or 'She is a formidable leader.' It is rarely used in casual, everyday conversation, appearing more frequently in journalism, literature, and professional settings.
Common Contexts
You will most often encounter this word in sports reporting (a formidable team), political discourse (a formidable candidate), or academic settings (a formidable body of research). It suggests that the entity being described has a high degree of competence or strength that could easily overwhelm an unprepared individual.
Similar Words Comparison
While 'frightening' implies pure terror, 'formidable' implies respect. 'Intimidating' focuses on the feeling of being small, whereas 'formidable' focuses on the objective strength of the source. 'Difficult' is a neutral term, while 'formidable' adds a layer of gravity and scale, suggesting that the obstacle is not just hard, but potentially unconquerable.
Exemplos
She has a formidable reputation in the legal community.
formalElla tiene una reputación formidable en la comunidad legal.
The mountain was a formidable climb for the hikers.
everydayLa montaña fue una escalada formidable para los excursionistas.
His intellect is truly formidable.
academicSu intelecto es verdaderamente formidable.
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
a truly formidable force
una fuerza verdaderamente formidable
Frequentemente confundido com
Intimidating focuses on the fear caused in others. Formidable focuses on the inherent power of the subject itself.
Padrões gramaticais
How to Use It
Notas de uso
Use this word when you want to sound sophisticated and precise. It is a high-level adjective that elevates the tone of your writing. Avoid using it in very casual contexts where 'big' or 'hard' would suffice.
Erros comuns
Learners often use it to mean 'very good' in a casual sense, like 'a formidable sandwich.' This is incorrect; it should be reserved for things that present a serious challenge or carry great weight.
Tips
Use with nouns of strength
Pair this word with nouns like 'opponent', 'intellect', or 'challenge' to sound more natural. It emphasizes the scale of the obstacle.
Avoid using it for simple things
Do not use 'formidable' for minor inconveniences. It is reserved for truly significant obstacles or high-status individuals.
Historical usage in literature
Classic literature often uses this word to describe imposing villains or massive, stormy seas. It adds a dramatic, archaic flair to descriptions.
Origem da palavra
Derived from the Latin 'formidabilis,' which comes from 'formidare,' meaning 'to fear.' It entered English through Old French in the 16th century.
Contexto cultural
In Western culture, this word is frequently used in sports and political commentary to emphasize the seriousness of a competition. It suggests a 'clash of titans' scenario.
Dica de memorização
Think of a 'form' that is 'able' to crush anything in its path. If it is formidable, it is a force that is able to stand firm against all odds.
Perguntas frequentes
3 perguntasNot necessarily. While it implies intimidation, it is often used as a compliment to describe someone's impressive skills or a project's significant scope.
It is less common, but you could use it if that small object has a massive impact, such as 'a formidable microchip' that processes data at an impossible speed.
Yes, it is generally considered formal. It is better suited for essays, professional emails, or serious discussions rather than casual texting.
Teste-se
The candidate faced a ___ opponent in the final round of the debate.
An opponent in a debate is typically a challenge, making 'formidable' the appropriate descriptor.
Pontuação: /1
Summary
Formidable describes a person or thing that is so powerful or impressive that it commands respect and creates a sense of difficulty.
- Used to describe something powerful or intimidating.
- Implies a high level of respect and challenge.
- Commonly paired with nouns like opponent, task, or reputation.
Use with nouns of strength
Pair this word with nouns like 'opponent', 'intellect', or 'challenge' to sound more natural. It emphasizes the scale of the obstacle.
Avoid using it for simple things
Do not use 'formidable' for minor inconveniences. It is reserved for truly significant obstacles or high-status individuals.
Historical usage in literature
Classic literature often uses this word to describe imposing villains or massive, stormy seas. It adds a dramatic, archaic flair to descriptions.
Exemplos
3 de 3She has a formidable reputation in the legal community.
Ella tiene una reputación formidable en la comunidad legal.
The mountain was a formidable climb for the hikers.
La montaña fue una escalada formidable para los excursionistas.
His intellect is truly formidable.
Su intelecto es verdaderamente formidable.
