a formidable combination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formidable combination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two or more elements that, when combined, create a powerful or impressive effect. Example: "The team's experience and innovative ideas formed a formidable combination that led to their success in the competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

These three elements make a formidable combination.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a formidable combination of space and light.

The New York Times

As with any athlete, animal or otherwise, brains and brawn are a formidable combination.

The Guardian - Sport

Her energy, enthusiasm and no-nonsense approach made a formidable combination.

The Guardian

In one of its milder passages, Lawson wrote: Kramer and the Times were a formidable combination.

The New Yorker

Its money and Mr Peltz's expertise could make a formidable combination.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

But combined, the two would offer a very formidable combination.

TechCrunch

"That gap," Dr. Kurzweil continued, "is going to go away, and when it does, then machines can combine the subtlety and pattern-recognition strengths with the other natural advantages they already have, and that will be a very formidable combination".

The New York Times - Tech

Joan and Peggy could make a very formidable combination in that department.

Huffington Post

He played for the Packers from 1963 to 1970, starting five seasons as part of a formidable cornerback combination with Herb Adderley.

The New York Times - Sports

Moist, light, tender, it's perfectly sweet and delicately aromatic from the cardamom and citrus – a formidable flavour combination.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a formidable combination" to emphasize the strength resulting from the synergy of multiple elements, rather than just listing individual strengths.

Common error

Avoid using "a formidable combination" to describe trivial pairings; reserve it for situations where the combination genuinely results in significant power or effectiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formidable combination" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a pairing or group of elements that, when combined, are exceptionally powerful or effective. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

8%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formidable combination" is a noun phrase used to highlight the exceptional strength or effectiveness arising from the synergy of multiple elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly employed across various contexts. While the phrase appears most frequently in News & Media, its usage also extends to Encyclopedias, Science, Formal & Business, and Wiki. It is advisable to reserve "a formidable combination" for describing genuinely powerful pairings and to consider more straightforward alternatives in informal settings. Related phrases such as "a powerful alliance" or "an imposing partnership" can provide similar emphasis with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a powerful alliance

Replaces "combination" with "alliance", emphasizing the cooperative aspect of the union.

an imposing partnership

Substitutes "formidable" with "imposing" and "combination" with "partnership", highlighting the impressive nature of the collaboration.

a potent mix

Uses "potent" in place of "formidable" and "mix" instead of "combination", focusing on the strength and blended nature of the elements.

a winning formula

Replaces "formidable combination" with "winning formula", emphasizing the effectiveness and likelihood of success.

a fearsome pairing

Substitutes "formidable" with "fearsome" and "combination" with "pairing", stressing the intimidating aspect of the two elements.

a dynamic synergy

Changes "formidable combination" to "dynamic synergy", focusing on the interaction and energy created by the elements working together.

an unbeatable blend

Replaces "formidable" with "unbeatable" and "combination" with "blend", emphasizing the inability to be defeated and the harmonious mixing of elements.

a compelling synthesis

Substitutes "formidable" with "compelling" and "combination" with "synthesis", highlighting the persuasive and integrated nature of the elements.

a dominant coalition

Changes "formidable combination" to "dominant coalition", focusing on the power and unity of the group.

a striking convergence

Replaces "formidable combination" with "striking convergence", emphasizing the noticeable and impactful meeting of elements.

FAQs

How can I use "a formidable combination" in a sentence?

"A formidable combination" is used to describe two or more things that, when put together, are very effective or powerful. For example, "Her intelligence and experience made "a formidable combination" for solving complex problems."

What are some alternatives to "a formidable combination"?

Alternatives include "a powerful alliance", "an imposing partnership", or "a potent mix", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a formidable combination" in informal writing?

While "a formidable combination" is generally suitable for formal and neutral contexts, using simpler language like "a strong team" or "a powerful duo" may be more appropriate for informal writing.

What makes a combination "formidable"?

A combination is considered "formidable" when the elements involved enhance each other, creating a result that is significantly stronger or more effective than the sum of its parts. This often involves unique strengths or capabilities that complement each other.