a formidable role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formidable role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position or function that is challenging, impressive, or significant in nature. Example: "She played a formidable role in the success of the project, leading her team through numerous obstacles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Susanna Mälkki, the principal guest conductor, plays a formidable role.

The New Yorker

And Ms. Barron, a poised young actress, is a striking presence, performing more than creditably in a formidable role.

The New York Times

Ms. Rice seems likely to play a formidable role as well, not only because she was a shaper of policy during the presidency of Mr. Bush's father but also because she has developed a close working relationship with the Texas governor during the last 18 months.

The New York Times

For some, the notion that intelligent machines will play a formidable role in the economy of the future is worrisome.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

By the mid-1970s, the CPC faced a difficult dilemma: Either follow the fate of its Soviet Union counterpart or assume a less formidable role that would allow it to loosen up its control on the economy, while maintaining control over the political system.

Forbes

Next season at the Met Mr. Domingo is to fulfill a longtime dream, singing the title role of Verdi's "Simon Boccanegra," a formidable baritone role, which suits his voice well, he said.

The New York Times - Arts

Whatever the vocal issues with Mr. Calleja's Hoffmann, he withstood the pressure of singing this formidable role for the first time in a major new production at the Met, and saved the day.

The New York Times - Arts

Vice President Dick Cheney is assembling a powerful parallel White House staff, including a mini-National Security Council and domestic policy team, to support his formidable role in shaping the Bush agenda and brokering it on Capitol Hill.

The New York Times

American Special Operations troops played no formidable role, they said.

The New York Times

This formidable role, sometimes called the Russian Otello, should still suit his heroic tenor voice.

The New York Times - Arts

Next Thursday that formidable role is taken over by the fine young lyric tenor Stephen Costello, who made an impressive Met debut in the small role of Arturo.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a formidable role," ensure the context clearly establishes why the role is considered formidable. Providing specific examples of the challenges or responsibilities involved can enhance the reader's understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a formidable role" to describe routine or trivial tasks. The term implies a significant challenge or importance, so overuse can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

Noun phrase functioning as a predicate nominative or object complement. Ludwig AI and the examples demonstrate its use to describe a position characterized by challenges, significance, or influence. It modifies the noun, adding an emphasis on the substantial nature of the role.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Arts

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a formidable role" is used to describe a position or function that is challenging, significant, and demands respect. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts such as news articles, professional communications, and academic writing. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its usage across various domains, including politics, arts, and technology. While the phrase is not exceedingly common, it effectively conveys the weight and importance of the described role. When using "a formidable role", ensure that the context clearly indicates the reasons for its formidability, avoiding overuse in trivial situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenging position

Focuses on the difficulty and demanding nature of the role.

a central position

Stresses the role's importance to an organisation or system.

a critical function

Highlights the importance and necessity of the role.

a significant part

Highlights the importance and impact of the role.

an influential capacity

Emphasizes the ability of the role to affect outcomes.

a crucial assignment

Emphasizes the importance of the role to a specific goal or project.

a demanding responsibility

Emphasizes the level of commitment and effort required.

an imposing task

Highlights the challenging and potentially daunting nature of the role.

a powerful presence

Focuses on the influence and authority associated with the role.

a dominant force

Focuses on the impact and control the role has.

FAQs

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

You can use "a formidable role" to describe someone or something that is powerful and deserves respect. For example: "She played "a formidable role in" the negotiations, securing a favorable outcome for her company".

What are some alternatives to "a formidable role"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a challenging position", "a significant part", or "a demanding responsibility".

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

While grammatically correct, "a formidable role" is generally more suited to formal or professional contexts. In informal settings, simpler phrases like "a big part" or "a key position" might be more appropriate.

What makes a role "formidable"?

A role is considered "formidable" when it involves significant challenges, responsibilities, or influence. It often requires exceptional skill, strength, or determination to perform effectively.