a less than formidable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a less than formidable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that is not as impressive or powerful as expected or compared to others. Example: "Despite his reputation, the opponent proved to be a less than formidable challenge in the ring."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The appointment also puts to rest speculation that Attorney General John Ashcroft, who is eager to centralize antiterrorism investigations, would also demand a less than formidable successor to Ms. White in order to undermine the Southern District's status and independence.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Cleveland Cavaliers are outrebounding opponents by a league-leading margin of 6.2 in the postseason, and their ascension from a less-than-formidable rebounding squad to paint juggernaut in the playoffs has been a catalyst for the team's run to the NBA Finals.

The Washington Post

1976: Rutgers had four future NBA players and breezed through a less-than-formidable bunch -- Princeton, Connecticut (more Who-Conn than UConn in those days) and Virginia Military Institute -- to reach the Final Four with a 31-0 record.

Los Angeles Times

▶ OK, so they're facing a tough match today, following some decidedly shaky performances against less-than-formidable Group C opposition, but have a little faith, will you?

The Guardian - Sport

The Dolphins were in a complete tail-spin after the first five weeks, including defeats at the hands of the less-than-formidable Bengals and Titans and their lone victory coming from a meeting with woeful Cleveland, and then only thanks to an overtime end-zone rush by Jay Ajayi (more of him anon).

The Guardian - Sport

The disadvantage of a comparatively unknown candidate in a national primary is a drawback, but one of less than formidable proportions.

The New York Times

Ms Clinton, a former senator and Secretary of State, is looking slightly less than formidable, in part because the Democratic Party faces deep internal divisions of its own as its liberal wing becomes ever more vocal in urging Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts to take up its cause and challenge her from the left.

Independent

Sunderland fans swiftly became resigned to seeing a team capable of doing a brilliant double against Newcastle United last term stumble horribly against less than formidable relegation rivals.

The Guardian - Sport

Yet few would dismiss her as anything less than formidable.

The New York Times

Not only was War Emblem overpowering in the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, but the competition also looks less than formidable.

The New York Times - Sports

The swath, as represented in Saul Dibb's film, seems less than formidable; the heroine's political acumen is displayed early on, in repartee at dinner, but then left largely to wilt, and her most memorable social appearance is a drunken stagger, during which her hedge-size wig catches fire.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a less than formidable" to subtly downplay the strength or capability of something, especially when you want to avoid a harsh or direct criticism.

Common error

Avoid using "a less than formidable" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more direct and precise language to convey your meaning effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a less than formidable" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically modifying a noun. It serves to qualify or diminish the perceived strength or impact of the noun it modifies, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a less than formidable" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that serves to downplay or understate the strength or impressiveness of something. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, though may be less appropriate in overly formal settings. Alternatives such as "not particularly strong" or "somewhat weak" can be used depending on the desired nuance. The phrase is found in authoritative sources, solidifying its acceptance in standard English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not particularly strong

Focuses on the lack of strength, a direct attribute.

somewhat weak

Emphasizes a degree of weakness, implying a lack of power.

not very imposing

Highlights the lack of an impressive or intimidating presence.

rather unthreatening

Focuses on the absence of a threatening quality.

mildly challenging

Suggests a low degree of difficulty or opposition.

easily overcome

Emphasizes the ease with which something can be defeated or surpassed.

not especially daunting

Highlights the lack of an intimidating or discouraging quality.

relatively manageable

Focuses on the ease with which something can be controlled or handled.

not a major obstacle

Downplays the significance of a barrier or challenge.

somewhat underwhelming

Emphasizes the lack of excitement or impressiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "a less than formidable" in a sentence?

You can use "a less than formidable" to describe something or someone that isn't as strong or impressive as expected. For instance, "The challenge turned out to be "a less than formidable" obstacle than we anticipated".

What are some alternatives to "a less than formidable"?

Consider using phrases like "not particularly strong", "somewhat weak", or "not very imposing" as alternatives to "a less than formidable", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a less than formidable"?

Yes, "a less than formidable" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules and is used in various contexts to describe something lacking in strength or impressiveness.

What's the difference between "a less than formidable" and "not formidable"?

"A less than formidable" suggests a slight understatement, implying something is weaker than expected. "Not formidable" is more direct and simply states that something lacks impressiveness or strength. The choice depends on the desired level of subtlety.