formidable presence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formidable presence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a person or thing that is awe-inspiring or that inspires fear, respect, or admiration. For example, "The mayor's formidable presence commanded the audience's attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Google has a formidable presence in Washington.

The New York Times

Sarah is a formidable presence.

The Guardian

But Stalin was a formidable presence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Yet the mistress can also be a formidable presence.

The New York Times - Arts

She remained a formidable presence in British art.

The Guardian

She remained a formidable presence in English art.

The New York Times - Magazine

His absence of personality made him a formidable presence.

The New York Times - Arts

At 90, she is still a formidable presence.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Lastly, the Federal Reserve is a formidable presence.

The New York Times

He's extremely knowledgeable and a formidable presence in our group.

The Guardian - Sport

At closer range, he's a more formidable presence.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "formidable presence" to describe someone or something that commands attention and respect due to their power, skill, or stature. Ensure the context supports this interpretation to avoid exaggeration or misrepresentation.

Common error

Avoid using "formidable presence" in overly casual or informal situations. The phrase has a formal tone and can sound out of place if used inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

Noun phrase. The phrase "formidable presence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It describes the quality of being impressive or commanding, often due to power, skill, or stature. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "formidable presence" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun phrase that aptly describes someone or something inspiring awe, respect, or even fear. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is appropriate across a range of formal and neutral contexts, including news, business, and academic settings. The phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to convey a sense of significant impact and authority. While versatile, be mindful of avoiding overuse in overly casual contexts where its formality might feel out of place. Alternatives such as "imposing figure", "dominant force", and "powerful influence" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific intention. Overall, mastering the use of the phrase "formidable presence" enhances one's ability to convey impactful descriptions in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

force to be reckoned with

Suggests someone or something that should be taken seriously.

dominant force

Highlights the aspect of power and control exerted.

influential entity

Highlights the capacity to affect outcomes and opinions on a broader scale.

powerful influence

Emphasizes the capacity to affect events or people.

towering figure

Implies superiority and dominance in stature or influence.

imposing figure

Focuses on the visual aspect of being impressive or intimidating.

driving force

Focuses on the energy and initiative behind an action or movement.

significant figure

Indicates importance and impact.

major player

Highlights the role in a competitive environment.

respected authority

Emphasizes the credibility and recognition earned.

FAQs

How can I use "formidable presence" in a sentence?

Use "formidable presence" to describe a person, group, or thing that is impressive, powerful, and commands respect or perhaps even fear. For example, "The CEO's formidable presence filled the boardroom".

What are some alternatives to "formidable presence"?

Alternatives include "imposing figure", "dominant force", or "powerful influence" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "formidable presence" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "formidable presence" is well-suited for formal writing, particularly in news articles, academic papers, and business reports, where a strong and impactful description is needed.

What distinguishes "formidable presence" from "great presence"?

"Great presence" generally implies a positive and likable quality, while "formidable presence" suggests a more awe-inspiring or even intimidating quality. A great presence might be charismatic, whereas a formidable presence is authoritative.