a formidable problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formidable problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a challenge or issue that is difficult to overcome or solve. Example: "The team faced a formidable problem when trying to meet the tight deadline while ensuring quality."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

That was a formidable problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But corruption remains a formidable problem.

The Guardian

Like Yau, Perelman was a formidable problem solver.

The New Yorker

The corrosion starts on a small level, then quickly escalates into a formidable problem.

The New York Times

My mother never became sick from tasting raw fish, but, by chance, gefilte fish turned out to be a formidable problem for my medical partner's wife, Rita.

The New York Times - Health

But senators and other elected officials who once seemed untouchable have become fair game for primary challenges in the last several years, and Mr. Lugar has a formidable problem on his hands with Mr. Mourdock.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Numerous evidences showed that chemoresistance is a clinically formidable problem in managing EOC patients.

BMC Cancer

Depressing as it sounds, he is a much more formidable problem the state has to deal with in the long term and one whose numbers will grow as the recession deepens and the simplistic mantras of the republican dissidents become more attractive.

The Guardian

The goal of understanding cellular and subcellular contributions to energetics of brain function and disease and the brain images based on these signals is a long-standing, formidable problem requiring complementary combinations of quantitative in vivo approaches to address technically difficult issues.

ASN Neuro

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

In addition, there was a formidable logistics problem in shipping supplies along the 715-mile (1,150-km 1,150-kmoad, which extended from Kunming to Lashio, the terminus in Burma Roadhe railwhichnd highway lextendedo Rangoon.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a formidable problem", ensure that the context clearly establishes the specific area or domain in which the problem is significant. Providing context enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

While "a formidable problem" is a valid and strong phrase, avoid using it in very casual or informal settings. Simpler terms like "a tough issue" or "a big challenge" may be more appropriate for everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formidable problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "formidable" is an adjective modifying the noun "problem". It characterizes the problem as being difficult to overcome. Ludwig examples illustrate its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formidable problem" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a significant challenge. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its frequent use in science, news, and encyclopedic contexts, suggesting a neutral-to-formal register. While its meaning is clear, it's important to ensure its use aligns with the context's formality. Consider alternatives like ""a significant challenge"" or ""a major obstacle"" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a serious difficulty

This phrase replaces 'formidable' with 'serious', indicating the grave nature of the problem.

a significant challenge

This alternative replaces 'formidable' with 'significant', emphasizing the importance and impact of the problem.

a daunting task

This alternative describes the problem in terms of the work needed to solve it, emphasizing the feeling of being overwhelmed.

a major obstacle

Using 'major obstacle' shifts the focus to the impediment aspect of the problem, rather than its overall difficulty.

a considerable hurdle

This alternative highlights the aspect of overcoming the problem, rather than just its existence.

a tough issue

This is a more informal way of expressing the same idea, replacing 'formidable' with 'tough'.

a complex situation

This focuses on the intricate nature of the problem, implying multiple interacting factors.

a knotty issue

This alternative emphasizes the complicated and intricate nature of the problem, implying it's hard to untangle.

a thorny question

This alternative suggests the problem is sensitive and potentially controversial.

a grave concern

This highlights the worry and unease associated with the problem, rather than its difficulty.

FAQs

What does "a formidable problem" mean?

The phrase "a formidable problem" describes a problem or challenge that is very difficult to overcome or solve. It suggests that the problem requires significant effort, skill, or resources to address.

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

You can use "a formidable problem" to describe challenges in various contexts. For example: "Drug resistance remains "a clinically formidable problem" in managing EOC patients", or "Climate change presents "a formidable problem for the world"".

What are some alternatives to "a formidable problem"?

Some alternatives include "a significant challenge", "a major obstacle", "a serious difficulty", or "a daunting task". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "a formidable problem" formal or informal language?

"A formidable problem" is considered relatively formal language, suitable for academic, professional, or news contexts. In more casual settings, simpler phrases like "a tough issue" might be more appropriate.