a formidable threat

USAGE SUMMARY

"a formidable threat" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe a serious or intimidating danger. Example: The storm posed a formidable threat to the nearby town.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

But they hardly amount to a formidable threat.

The Economist

But portable missiles remain a formidable threat to commercial aviation.

The New York Times

Risk and its consequences pose a formidable threat to poverty reduction efforts.

World Development

This, plus its increased speed, makes the nuclear submarine a formidable threat.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Still, Prater's skill provides a formidable threat that could greatly aid Northwestern's passing attack.

The New York Times

As three-times champions and the No 1 ranked side, Australia pose a formidable threat.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

He may well become a more formidable threat than Escobar ever was.

The New York Times - Books

But with Taylor in the lineup, the Jaguars are a more formidable threat to reach Super Bowl XXXIV and to win it.

The New York Times - Sports

He described the operation as mainly one of deterrence, to pose a sufficiently formidable threat that would make any would-be attackers realize that their chances of a successful strike were practically nonexistent.

The New York Times - Sports

"But looking ahead I have some concerns". Mr. Joedicke thinks fare wars could erode Piedmont's profit margins or that Eastern may become a more formidable threat under new management.

The New York Times

Intraplate seismicity poses a more formidable threat, as it can be much more powerful than interplate seismicity and is usually associated with landslides, subsidence, and even soil liquefaction.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a competitive situation, use "a formidable threat" to underline the opponent's strengths and the difficulty in overcoming them.

Common error

While "a formidable threat" is widely applicable, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for alternatives like "a big problem" or "a tough challenge" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formidable threat" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. It typically describes something that poses a significant danger or challenge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formidable threat" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe something that poses a serious and intimidating danger or challenge. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is widely used across various authoritative sources like the New York Times and The Guardian, and scientific publications. While generally appropriate, be mindful of its slightly formal tone and consider alternatives like "a serious danger" or "a tough challenge" in more casual settings. Remember to use this phrase when you want to emphasize the significant impact and difficulty associated with a particular threat.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a serious danger

Focuses on the gravity of the potential harm.

a significant challenge

Highlights the difficulty in overcoming the obstacle.

a major risk

Emphasizes the probability of negative outcomes.

a grave menace

Indicates a severe and imminent danger.

a potent adversary

Highlights the strength and capability of an opponent.

a considerable peril

Stresses the magnitude of the potential harm.

a tough competitor

Emphasizes the difficulty of competition.

a stern test

Focuses on the demanding nature of a challenge.

a looming crisis

Suggests an impending and severe problem.

an imposing danger

Highlights the intimidating nature of the danger.

FAQs

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

You can use "a formidable threat" to describe anything that presents a serious challenge or danger. For example, "The approaching hurricane is a formidable threat to coastal communities."

What are some alternatives to "a formidable threat"?

You can use alternatives like "a serious danger", "a significant challenge", or "a major risk" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a formidable threat"?

While generally correct, "a formidable threat" may sound overly formal in informal settings. Consider using simpler alternatives like "a big problem" or "a tough challenge" in casual conversations.

What makes something "a formidable threat"?

A "formidable threat" implies something is substantial, intimidating, and difficult to overcome. It suggests the threat has significant power, resources, or impact.