forbidding aspect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "forbidding aspect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quality or characteristic that creates a sense of intimidation or unease. Example: "The old mansion had a forbidding aspect, with its dark windows and overgrown garden that seemed to whisper secrets of the past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

But with his unique additions, they assumed a more sinister, forbidding aspect.

Independent

Looking at some family photographs of the last century, we thought they had, on the whole, a forbidding aspect.

The New Yorker

The New Yorker, January 29 , 1938P. 9 Looking at some family photographs of the last century, we thought they had, on the whole, a forbidding aspect.

The New Yorker

Groggily, I opened the curtains and then sat dazzled before a startlingly white landscape — its forbidding aspect tempered and endowed with heartening intimacy by the unearthly radiance of Tibetan light.

The New Yorker

By Morris Bishop and Wolcott Gibbs The New Yorker, January 29 , 1938P. 9 Looking at some family photographs of the last century, we thought they had, on the whole, a forbidding aspect.

The New Yorker

The landscape has such a forbidding aspect that someone remarked it makes Death Valley look like a summer resort.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"There's a forbidden aspect of it," Alexander said of the drug.

The New York Times

The country has only been admitting tourists in any capacity for a few years ("The draw is the forbidden aspect," McIntyre says), and unlike many countries that have been mining their past for decades, archeology is new to the kingdom.

Forbes

Romeo and Juliet works because of the forbidden aspect of their love.

Vice

That forbidden aspect that nobody would watch shows that are a bit of a downer has been reevaluated," said Robert Thompson, director of the Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture at Syracuse University.

Huffington Post

I climbed the hill to the Kars Castle: an ancient fortress of such forbidding and impregnable aspect that Pushkin, who visited the city during the Russian campaign of 1829, later dubbed his mother-in-law Mama Kars.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "forbidding aspect" to describe something that seems unwelcoming, intimidating, or dangerous. It's particularly effective when describing landscapes, buildings, or even abstract situations that evoke a sense of unease.

Common error

Avoid using "forbidding aspect" in situations where the tone is not genuinely serious or intimidating. Overusing it can make your writing sound melodramatic or insincere. Instead, choose more appropriate descriptors for lighter contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "forbidding aspect" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, describing a quality that inspires fear or unease. According to Ludwig, it's appropriate for creating a sense of intimidation or danger.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Academia

17%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "forbidding aspect" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something with an intimidating or unwelcoming quality. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While relatively rare in occurrence, it appears most frequently in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure the context warrants a serious or intimidating tone to avoid sounding melodramatic. Alternatives such as "ominous appearance" or "intimidating quality" may be suitable depending on the desired nuance. The phrase is generally neutral in register, suitable for descriptive writing across various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forbidding air

Air is a quality of the atmosphere that may be forbidding

ominous appearance

Emphasizes a threatening or foreboding quality.

threatening appearance

Highlights the presence of potential harm or danger.

intimidating quality

Focuses on the capacity to inspire fear or respect through power.

grim countenance

Refers specifically to facial expression conveying seriousness or disapproval.

unwelcoming air

Highlights the lack of invitation or warmth.

austere facade

Suggests a stark and unadorned exterior, often implying severity.

bleak outlook

Highlights the sense of a dismal or hopeless perspective.

chilling presence

Emphasizes the sense of fear or discomfort the presence creates.

daunting prospect

Focuses on the intimidating nature of a future possibility or task.

FAQs

How can I use "forbidding aspect" in a sentence?

You can use "forbidding aspect" to describe something that appears intimidating or unwelcoming. For example, "The mountain range had a forbidding aspect, making it difficult to traverse".

What are some alternatives to "forbidding aspect"?

Some alternatives include "ominous appearance", "intimidating quality", or "unwelcoming air". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "forbidding aspect" formal or informal?

"Forbidding aspect" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase. It is appropriate for both news and creative writing.

What kind of things usually have a "forbidding aspect"?

Landscapes, buildings, and abstract concepts can have a "forbidding aspect". It is most often used to describe things that evoke a sense of unease or intimidation.