a formidable presence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formidable presence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has a strong, impressive, or intimidating effect on others. Example: "The CEO walked into the room with a formidable presence, commanding the attention of everyone present."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Google has a formidable presence in Washington.

The New York Times

Sarah is a formidable presence.

The Guardian

But Stalin was a formidable presence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She remained a formidable presence in British art.

The Guardian

She remained a formidable presence in English art.

The New York Times - Magazine

His absence of personality made him a formidable presence.

The New York Times - Arts

At 90, she is still a formidable presence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Lastly, the Federal Reserve is a formidable presence.

The New York Times

He's extremely knowledgeable and a formidable presence in our group.

The Guardian - Sport

That he will remain a formidable presence is beyond argument.

The New York Times

Giuliani was a formidable presence in his first term, whether he was being admired or loathed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a formidable presence" when you want to convey that someone or something commands attention and respect due to their power, skill, or importance. For example, "The lawyer's reputation made him "a formidable presence" in the courtroom".

Common error

Avoid using "a formidable presence" in overly casual or informal situations. It's best suited for describing individuals, organizations, or entities that genuinely possess significant influence or authority. Using it to describe everyday situations can sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formidable presence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it describes someone or something with a strong, impressive, or intimidating effect. For example, "Giuliani was a formidable presence in his first term."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formidable presence" is a noun phrase used to describe entities that command respect and attention due to their power, skill, or importance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing. This phrase is most commonly found in news and media, indicating its versatility and widespread recognition. While generally neutral in tone, its use in formal or business contexts can elevate its formality. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context and effectively conveys the intended sense of significant influence. Consider alternatives like "an imposing figure" or "a commanding presence" to fine-tune your message. The examples gathered by Ludwig showcase the phrase's usage across various domains, solidifying its place as a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a commanding presence

Emphasizes authority and the ability to lead or influence others.

an imposing figure

Focuses more on physical appearance or stature creating a sense of awe or intimidation.

a powerful force

Highlights the strength and influence exerted, often in a more abstract or impactful way.

a significant influence

Stresses the impact on decisions, actions, or opinions of others.

a force to be reckoned with

Suggests that someone or something should be taken seriously and potentially feared.

a towering figure

Implies exceptional importance or achievement, standing out from others.

a dominant personality

Refers specifically to an individual's character and their tendency to take control.

a major player

Indicates importance and influence within a particular field or situation.

an authoritative voice

Highlights expertise and credibility, commanding respect through knowledge.

a respected leader

Focuses on the positive aspects of influence, suggesting admiration and trust.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a formidable presence" in a sentence?

Use "a formidable presence" to describe someone or something that commands respect and attention. For instance, "The company established "a formidable presence" in the industry through innovation and strategic partnerships".

What are some alternatives to "a formidable presence" that I can use?

You can use alternatives like "an imposing figure", "a commanding presence", or "a powerful force" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a formidable presence" to describe an object?

Yes, "a formidable presence" can be used to describe an object if it possesses a quality that inspires respect or awe. For example, "The ancient castle had "a formidable presence", dominating the landscape".

What is the difference between ""a formidable presence"" and "a strong presence"?

"A formidable presence" implies a greater degree of power, authority, or influence than "a strong presence". While a strong presence simply indicates a noticeable impact, ""a formidable presence"" suggests that this impact is significant and potentially intimidating.