a formidable look

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formidable look" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's appearance that conveys strength, intimidation, or impressiveness. Example: "When she walked into the room, her formidable look commanded everyone's attention and respect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The acquisition of Giovani Dos Santos via the new league mechanism had given the first choice Galaxy team a formidable look on paper.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The essay was a formidable looking glass.

The New York Times - Books

It was, Hillary later wrote, "a formidable looking problem...We realized that at this altitude it might well spell the difference between success and failure".

The New York Times

Sampson's Lionesses, the England women's football team, checked into their downtown hotel on Friday for a World Cup campaign kicking-off with a match against a formidable looking France side in Moncton on Tuesday.

The Guardian - Sport

It was as emphatic as it was unexpected, and in one fell swoop transformed the complexion of Colorado's start – having kept Dallas out at the other end, the Rapids can now point to having conceded (and lost) in only one of their five games so far, and to have denied the speed and movement of a formidable looking Dallas offense in completing the latest instalment.

The Guardian - Sport

Located on a side street lined with hostess bars, Glass has blacked out windows and a formidable looking doorman at the entrance.

BBC

Finally, a mere two minutes before midnight, a tall formidable looking inmate walks up to the warden, and he says, "You don't want to die, but you don't know how to take a life.

Huffington Post

The durian is commonly known as the "King of the Fruits", a label that can be attributed to its formidable look and overpowering odour.

Wikipedia

For years he rebuffed their advances, to the point that the hard-headedness that made him such a formidable boxer looked like it would prevent him from getting his mitts on the top prize.

The Guardian - Sport

How, I wondered, do I speak meaningfully to a congregation with hundreds of formidable looking dudes and with a sweet and heartbroken 7-year-old mourning her Daddy?

Huffington Post

My dad gave me a poster of these formidable looking women, and I tacked it on my wall.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a formidable look" to describe a character or situation that presents a significant challenge or inspires awe. It's particularly effective when emphasizing the outward appearance as an indicator of inner strength or capability.

Common error

Avoid using "a formidable look" in informal or lighthearted situations where it can sound overly dramatic or out of place. Save it for contexts that genuinely warrant a sense of power or intimidation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formidable look" functions as a noun phrase, where "formidable" modifies the noun "look". Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing an appearance that inspires respect or even fear. It is often used to depict strength or challenge.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formidable look" describes an appearance that is strong, powerful, and often intimidating. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, confirming that it's employed to portray strength and authority. While not overly formal, it's best suited for contexts where a sense of power or challenge is relevant. Related phrases include "an imposing appearance" and "a commanding presence", offering nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an imposing appearance

Focuses on the visual aspect of being impressive and commanding.

a commanding presence

Highlights the ability to dominate or control a situation through appearance.

an intimidating aura

Emphasizes the feeling of fear or respect inspired by the appearance.

a powerful gaze

Focuses specifically on the intensity and strength conveyed through the eyes.

a striking visage

Emphasizes the visual impact and memorability of the face or overall appearance.

a strong presence

Highlights the general sense of power and influence.

an impressive demeanor

Focuses on the behavior and attitude that contribute to a powerful impression.

a fearsome aspect

Emphasizes the frightening or alarming quality of the appearance.

a dominant air

Highlights the sense of control and authority projected by the appearance.

a forceful expression

Emphasizes the intensity and determination conveyed through facial features.

FAQs

How can "a formidable look" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a formidable look" to describe someone or something that appears strong, powerful, or intimidating. For example: "The building had "a formidable look", with its high walls and barred windows."

What are some synonyms for "a formidable look"?

Alternatives include "an imposing appearance", "a commanding presence", or "an intimidating aura". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. A "commanding presence" suggests authority, while "an intimidating aura" implies fear.

When is it appropriate to use "a formidable look"?

It's appropriate when describing something that genuinely appears strong, powerful, or challenging. Avoid using it in trivial situations where it might sound exaggerated or out of place. Use instead an "imposing appearance".

What's the difference between "a formidable look" and "a frightening look"?

"A formidable look" suggests strength and power, while "a frightening look" implies fear or terror. "A formidable look" might inspire respect or caution, while a "frightening look" is more likely to cause panic or aversion.