an imposing character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an imposing character" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a strong presence or is impressive in appearance or demeanor. Example: "The new CEO walked into the room with an imposing character that commanded everyone's attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The role called for an imposing character with stamina and a powerful voice.

The Guardian

Until two years ago, Mahdi – an imposing character, quick to anger – wielded huge power in Iran, heading the Committee To Protect The Revolution.

The Guardian

The beast in the picture is a woman whose head and back stick out from a building and look out over the street below; she's an imposing character.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Described as a large and physically imposing character with a reputation for womanising, Le Gris was a liege man (feudal retainer) of Count Pierre d'Alençon and a favourite at his court, governing a large swathe of his liege lord's territory in addition to his own ancestral holdings.

Wikipedia

She collects details here but lacks an overarching theme; luckily, Waugh, of course, was a brilliant and imposing character.

The New York Times - Books

We've seen the imposing character in brief fight sequences and silently torturing Oliver Stephen Amelll) during "Arrow's" island flashback scenes, but the February 6 episode, titled "Betrayal," will offer us our first look behind the mask.

HuffPost

On the contrary, the Texas statute in respect of permits deals exclusively with the private contract carrier, and requires the issue of the permit not to him in the imposed character of a common carrier, but in his actual character as a private contract carrier.

Cornell University

Essentially a study of character, the novel explores Latour's inner conflicts and his relationship with the land, which through the author's powerful description becomes an imposing, unyielding character in its own right.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A sprawling book that brought together Baldwin's concerns with race and sex, its daring themes — black rage, interracial sex, homosexuality, white guilt, urban malaise — make an imposing backdrop for characters who refuse to come to life.

The New Yorker

The moniker grozny applied to Ivan IV was not describing his brutality or his rages but rather the fact that he was an imposing, larger than life character.

Huffington Post

In life, Langella is known to be a passionate, imposing, voluble character; onstage, his stooped, jowly, repressed but forceful Nixon is a piquant piece of theatrical transformation.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an imposing character" to describe someone whose presence is striking and leaves a lasting impression. This phrase is suitable for both fictional characters and real people.

Common error

Avoid using "an imposing character" in overly casual or informal settings. It's generally more appropriate for formal writing or when aiming for a more serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an imposing character" functions primarily as a descriptive element within a sentence. It modifies a noun (character) to provide more detail about its qualities, such as strength, presence, or influence. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an imposing character" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase in English, though not extremely common. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and appropriateness. It is most often found in News & Media, Wiki, and Encyclopedia sources. The phrase serves to describe someone with a strong, impressive presence, and is generally suitable for neutral to formal writing. Consider alternatives like "a commanding presence" or "a formidable figure" for similar meanings. While generally appropriate, avoid overuse in casual contexts. This phrase effectively communicates authority and leaves a lasting impression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a commanding presence

Focuses on the impact and authority the person exudes.

a powerful presence

Similar to "commanding presence" but with a slightly broader connotation of strength.

a formidable figure

Highlights the respect and perhaps fear the person inspires.

a forceful character

Focuses on the strength and determination of the person.

a striking personality

Emphasizes the memorable and noticeable nature of the person's character.

an authoritative figure

Highlights the person's recognized authority and expertise.

a dominant individual

Stresses the person's control and influence over others.

an impressive individual

Highlights the person's admirable qualities and achievements.

a larger-than-life persona

Implies the person is extraordinary and captivating.

a magnetic personality

Emphasizes the person's ability to attract and influence others.

FAQs

How can I use "an imposing character" in a sentence?

You can use "an imposing character" to describe someone who has a strong presence or is impressive in appearance or demeanor. For example, "The villain was "an imposing character", feared by all who knew him".

What are some alternatives to "an imposing character"?

Alternatives include "a commanding presence", "a formidable figure", or "a powerful presence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "an imposing character" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "an imposing character" is suitable for formal writing. It is a descriptive phrase that can add depth to your character descriptions.

What qualities define someone as "an imposing character"?

Qualities that define "an imposing character" typically include physical stature, strong personality, authoritative demeanor, and the ability to command attention or respect.