a formidable relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

"a formidable relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase means a relationship that is strong and difficult to break. You can use it in various contexts. For example, "The bond between the couple was a formidable relationship, overcoming even the most challenging obstacles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

There he forged a formidable relationship with the artists and repertoire manager Ashley Newton, and in 1988 they left to set up their own label, Circa.

The Guardian - Music

The three emergency services work closely together and have built a formidable relationship that has significantly increased the survival rates of patients suffering an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

The Guardian

Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla is only at the beginning of her tenure as the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra's new music director, but there is already evidence – following the major acclaim of her August concerts at Symphony Hall and the Proms – of a formidable relationship forged with orchestra and audience alike.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Elected SNP deputy leader on a joint ticket with Mr Salmond, the two have formed a formidable working relationship, with Ms Sturgeon coming to regard her boss as a friend and mentor.

BBC

"Rustow's approach to this archive goes beyond decoding documents, in itself a formidable task, to questioning the relationship between subjects and medieval states and asking what that relationship tells us about power and the negotiation of religious boundaries". To learn more about her work, directly from the source, check out her interview on NPR's All Things Considered.

Columbia University

3. The diet is a complex mixture of foods and nutrients including many highly correlated elements; even if the nutrient exposures of interest could be measured exactly, it may be a formidable task to estimate the relationship between a specific nutrient, such as fat or fiber, and breast cancer risk, while accommodating other dietary factors.

Breast Cancer Research

This is a formidable meditation on art's sinister relationship with violence.

The Guardian - Arts

By the spring of 1801, he had amassed a formidable body of evidence pointing toward Jefferson's longstanding sexual relationship with Sally Hemings.

The New York Times - Books

"This expands the pre-existing relationship between the two companies and creates a formidable combination when it comes to services," said Dell vice chairman, Kevin Rollins, in a statement.

Forbes

Danchev is not only a formidable historian; he is also closely attentive to the dynamics in any relationship.

Independent

Confined to death certificate data, our study only indirectly assessed the relationship between race/ethnicity, other decedent characteristics, and suicide misclassification, a formidable target.

BMC Psychiatry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a formidable relationship" to describe connections that are not only strong but also create a sense of respect or even slight intimidation due to their power and influence.

Common error

Avoid using "a formidable relationship" to describe casual acquaintances or superficial interactions. This phrase implies a deep-seated and impactful connection, not just a friendly or fleeting association.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formidable relationship" functions as a noun phrase, where "formidable" modifies the noun "relationship". It typically acts as a subject or object in a sentence, describing the nature of the connection between individuals or entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formidable relationship" is a noun phrase used to describe a connection that is not only strong but also influential and often commanding respect. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and suggests it's used to highlight relationships with significant impact. While relatively uncommon, it appears predominantly in news and media, academia and science. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the power and influence inherent in the relationship you are describing to avoid overstating the connection. Consider alternatives like "a strong bond" or "a powerful alliance" if the emphasis is more on connection or collaboration, respectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong bond

Focuses on the emotional connection and resilience within the relationship.

a powerful alliance

Emphasizes the combined strength and influence resulting from the relationship.

an unbreakable tie

Stresses the enduring and resilient nature of the relationship.

a solid connection

Highlights the stability and reliability of the relationship.

a close partnership

Highlights the collaborative and cooperative nature of the relationship.

a commanding rapport

Focuses on the respect and influence within the relationship.

a resilient friendship

Emphasizes the ability of the friendship to withstand challenges.

a tenacious connection

Highlights the persistence and determination within the relationship.

a robust association

Focuses on the well-founded and vigorous nature of the association.

a dynamic interplay

Emphasizes the energetic and interactive qualities of the relationship.

FAQs

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

You can use "a formidable relationship" to describe a powerful and influential connection between people or entities. For example, "The two leaders forged "a formidable relationship" that reshaped the political landscape".

What are some alternatives to "a formidable relationship"?

Alternatives include "a strong bond", "a powerful alliance", or "a solid connection", each emphasizing different aspects of the relationship.

Is it appropriate to use "a formidable relationship" in all contexts?

No, it's best suited for describing relationships that have a significant impact or demonstrate considerable strength and influence. Using it for casual relationships may sound exaggerated.

What distinguishes "a formidable relationship" from a typical strong relationship?

"A formidable relationship" implies not just strength but also a degree of influence or even a sense of being somewhat intimidating due to its power and resilience. A typical strong relationship might simply highlight mutual support and affection.