at formidable speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at formidable speed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is happening very quickly or with great intensity. Example: "The cheetah sprinted across the savannah at formidable speed, leaving its prey with no chance of escape."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Most of the tracks he plays are new and the audience have had enough time with Made in the Manor to absorb its extensive lyric sheet, which Kano gallops through at formidable speed.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The firm's cars soon became known for their formidable speed and handcrafted quality.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There had been formidable speed pairings before but never an enduring pair of such contrast.

Independent

Blessed with formidable speed and strength to go with his rare skill, the 25-year-old was always worth watching.

The Guardian - Sport

In March 2012, at the United States' Adaptive Alpine Skiing National Championships World Cup event held in Aspen, Colorado, she won four gold medals on the formidable Tiehack speed course (two Super G ski speed races and two downhill events) despite having to compete wearing a plaster cast to protect a broken thumb.

Wikipedia

On sea trials, Formidable reached speeds of 30.6 kn with 112018 shp.

Wikipedia

I can say with authority that I'm pretty awful at driving sims, but I'm formidable at Need For Speed.

TechCrunch

Amidst the formidable waves, sea spray and foam streak horizontally across the surface at high speed, blurring the view of the ocean's surface in this photo from an aircraft flying through a hurricane.

Huffington Post

/ At his speed.

The New Yorker

At top speed?

The New Yorker

He talks at high speed.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at formidable speed" to describe actions or processes that occur exceptionally quickly and powerfully. This phrase is suitable for formal writing and adds emphasis to the rapid nature of the event.

Common error

Avoid using "at formidable speed" in casual conversation or informal writing. Its formality may sound out of place; opt for simpler phrases like "very fast" or "quickly" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at formidable speed" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig provides examples where it describes the pace of someone speaking or the velocity of moving objects.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at formidable speed" is a correct and usable English expression that acts as an adverbial phrase emphasizing exceptional quickness and intensity. According to Ludwig, it is most appropriately used in neutral to formal contexts such as news, encyclopedias and wiki, and it implies an impressive or powerful quality to the speed, unlike simpler alternatives like "at high speed". While grammatically sound, it is best reserved for situations where a strong emphasis on rapid and impactful action is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with astonishing velocity

Replaces "formidable speed" with a synonym emphasizing the quickness of the movement.

at an incredible pace

Substitutes "formidable speed" with an alternative highlighting the rate of action.

moving with great rapidity

Emphasizes the fast motion by using a different adverb and noun.

at lightning pace

Uses a metaphor to describe the speed, implying extreme quickness.

at a blistering rate

Replaces "formidable speed" with a more intense and descriptive adjective.

with breakneck swiftness

Highlights the speed and potential danger of the action.

at warp speed

Borrowing from science fiction, implies an extremely high velocity.

at full tilt

Indicates maximum speed or effort.

at a tremendous gallop

Emphasizes speed and energy, particularly in the context of running.

with utmost haste

Highlights the urgency and speed of the action.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "at formidable speed" in a sentence?

To effectively use "at formidable speed", place it after a verb to describe how something is being done very quickly and impressively. For example, "The data was processed "at formidable speed", allowing for immediate analysis."

What are some alternatives to "at formidable speed"?

You can use alternatives like "with astonishing velocity", "at an incredible pace", or "moving with great rapidity" depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "at formidable speed" appropriate for all types of writing?

While grammatically correct, "at formidable speed" is better suited for formal or technical writing. In more casual settings, simpler phrases like "very quickly" or "extremely fast" may be more appropriate.

What makes "at formidable speed" different from "at high speed"?

"At formidable speed" suggests not just quickness, but also an impressive or powerful quality to the speed. "At high speed" is a more general term simply indicating rapid motion, whereas ""at formidable speed"" implies something awe-inspiring about the velocity.