an imposing man

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an imposing man" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a man who has a commanding presence or is impressive in stature or demeanor. Example: "As he entered the room, everyone turned to look at the imposing man who seemed to command attention effortlessly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Keller is an imposing man, broad-shouldered and barrel-chested.

The New York Times - Magazine

Holmes, 48, is an imposing man, 6 foot 4, thin but muscular, wearing cracked plastic shoes.

The New York Times - Magazine

He was an imposing man — six feet tall, two hundred and fifty pounds.

The New Yorker

"Suleiman is an imposing man," recalls former British ambassador David Blatherwick.

The Guardian

But only one of them, an imposing man with a muscular build, was actually a police officer.

The New York Times

Dokic, an imposing man, screamed obscenities at Pistone in particular and at the United States in general.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

A mine heap is an imposing man-made "deposit" where crushed ore and low-grade minerals are agglomerated and stacked to a height of up to 100 m and hundreds of meters in length and width.

AMB Express

• Duane Hart is a large, imposing man, a veteran judge who rules over his courtroom a little like the way Henry VIII once ruled over England.

The New York Times

A tall, imposing man, with an alert mind and an ease with languages, he served as an SOE intelligence officer from 1940 to 1947, rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel.

The Guardian

He's a big, imposing man with a bushy beard and a voice that rises almost to a shout when he warns about the dangers of a Shafiq victory.

The Washington Post

He is a physically imposing man with a thick, black moustache.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an imposing man" to create a vivid image of someone who commands attention through their physical appearance, demeanor, or presence. It is most effective when you want to convey a sense of authority or respect.

Common error

Avoid using "an imposing man" in casual or informal settings where it may sound overly formal or dramatic. Opt for simpler descriptions like "a big guy" or "a strong presence" for everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an imposing man" functions primarily as a descriptive phrase. It modifies the noun "man", providing specific details about his appearance, demeanor, or overall presence. Ludwig examples illustrate this usage, showing how it's used to paint a picture of a person who commands attention.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Wiki

4%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an imposing man" is a descriptive phrase used to portray someone with a commanding presence or notable physical stature. Ludwig highlights its grammatical correctness and prevalent usage in news and media. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal contexts, as overusing it in casual settings may feel out of place. For alternatives, consider phrases like "a commanding man" or "a formidable man", depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a commanding man

Emphasizes the subject's authority and ability to lead.

a formidable man

Highlights the subject's power and the respect or fear they inspire.

an impressive man

Focuses on the positive and admiration-inducing qualities of the subject.

a striking man

Emphasizes the subject's noticeable and memorable appearance.

a man of stature

Refers to the subject's high rank, reputation, or physical height.

a man of presence

Highlights the subject's ability to command attention and respect.

a powerful man

Focuses on the subject's influence and control.

a dominant man

Emphasizes the subject's controlling and assertive nature.

a man with gravitas

Indicates the subject possesses seriousness, dignity, and importance.

a larger-than-life man

Suggests the subject is extraordinary and exceptional.

FAQs

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

You can use "an imposing man" to describe someone who has a strong and commanding presence. For example, "The CEO was "an imposing man" who commanded respect in every room he entered."

What are some alternatives to "an imposing man"?

Alternatives include "a commanding man", "a formidable man", or "a striking man". The best choice depends on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it better to say "an imposing man" or "a man who is imposing"?

"An imposing man" is more concise and direct, making it generally preferable. "A man who is imposing" is grammatically correct but can sound wordy.

What qualities make someone "an imposing man"?

Qualities that contribute to someone being described as "an imposing man" include physical size, a strong demeanor, a commanding presence, and an air of authority. It often suggests someone who is difficult to ignore or intimidate.