against formidable odds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "against formidable odds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is facing significant challenges or difficulties but still perseveres. Example: "Despite being outnumbered and under-resourced, the team managed to win the championship against formidable odds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

First, there is an uprising and a breakout, against formidable odds.

The New Yorker

Faulks explores what it takes to stay married - against formidable odds.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Karzai's defense of the American commander was testament to General McChrystal's effort to build trust against formidable odds.

The New York Times

Although outspokenly rebellious, Arthur Seaton in Saturday Night is determined, against formidable odds (a factory worker's pay), to enjoy himself.

The Guardian - Film

During a six-month period in 1944, Mr. Vujnovich (pronounced VOIN-ovich), an Army officer serving in the Office of Strategic Services, the forerunner of the Central Intelligence Agency, ran a vast aerial rescue mission that succeeded against formidable odds.

The New York Times

"A single listing gets flooded with 300 to 400 applicants, and grads are up against formidable odds," said Alysia Garrison, a Ph.D. candidate in English at the University of California, Davis, who is also president of the Graduate Student Caucus at the language association.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

So there's a potential campaign narrative available to the Labour leader as the plucky challenger battling against some formidable odds.

The Guardian - Opinion

At a time when Powell's journals have struggled to find an American library to hold them, and Loos's Hollywood serial, "The Better Things of Life," which Wilson praised as the Hollywood fiction "with most teeth in it," has vanished from view, it would seem more urgent to press on readers actual books written by women who achieved and sustained their formidable talent against the formidable odds.

The New Yorker

Bell, whose departure will coincide with his 75th birthday and the theatre's 25th anniversary, said he was "immensely proud" of what the company had achieved "against the most formidable odds" since it opened in 1990.

The Guardian

Fenger faces formidable odds.

The Economist

The legislation faces formidable odds of becoming law.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "against formidable odds", ensure the context clearly establishes the difficulties faced. This enhances the impact of the phrase and underscores the achievement or struggle.

Common error

Avoid using "against formidable odds" when the challenges are minor or easily overcome. Exaggerating the difficulty dilutes the phrase's impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "against formidable odds" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to describe the circumstances under which an action is performed or an outcome is achieved. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "against formidable odds" is a grammatically correct and readily usable phrase that describes a situation marked by significant challenges. Ludwig AI identifies it as an adverbial phrase used to emphasize the difficulty of a task or situation, highlighting successful outcomes or perseverance. While found primarily in news and media contexts, it maintains a generally neutral to formal register. Alternatives such as ""against overwhelming odds"" or ""in the face of great adversity"" offer similar meanings with slightly varied nuances. Use the phrase thoughtfully to give the right weight to a hard fought victory or effort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

against overwhelming odds

Focuses on the scale and intensity of the challenges faced.

against tremendous difficulties

Highlights the problematic nature of the situation being faced.

in the face of great adversity

Emphasizes the hardship and suffering involved.

despite significant challenges

Directly points to the presence of notable hurdles.

in defiance of considerable obstacles

Conveys a sense of active resistance and determination.

battling extreme hardships

Emphasizes the active struggle and difficult conditions.

overcoming substantial hurdles

Focuses on the act of successfully navigating challenges.

confronting major setbacks

Highlights the unexpected and negative nature of the difficulties.

triumphing over adversity

Underscores the successful outcome despite negative circumstances.

withstanding intense pressure

Concentrates on the ability to endure and resist external forces.

FAQs

How can I use "against formidable odds" in a sentence?

You can use "against formidable odds" to describe situations where someone or something succeeds despite facing major difficulties. For example, "The team won "against formidable odds", securing the championship title."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "against formidable odds"?

Alternatives include "against overwhelming odds", "in the face of great adversity", or "despite significant challenges". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "against formidable odds" in formal writing?

Yes, "against formidable odds" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when describing significant accomplishments or struggles in professional or academic contexts. However, always ensure the tone remains appropriate for your audience.

What is the difference between "against formidable odds" and "against all odds"?

"Against all odds" suggests the challenge seems nearly impossible, while "against formidable odds" implies the challenges are substantial and difficult, but not necessarily insurmountable. The former emphasizes the unlikelihood of success more strongly.