formidable tone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formidable tone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tone that is impressive, powerful, or intimidating, often in a context where authority or seriousness is conveyed. Example: "The speaker's formidable tone commanded the attention of the entire audience, leaving no room for doubt about the importance of the message."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Music

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

All the hallmarks of this formidable tone poet are on show: the murmurs of internal monologue that take the place of conversation, the reverence for green thoughts, the hopeless lurches into action, the bizarre physical sensibility that registers every flicker of sunlight but shies away, as if for fear of bruising, from any breath of sex.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Woe to him whose good name is more to him than goodness!" This sermon, an entire chapter in Melville's book, required Orson Welles's formidable tones to do it justice in John Huston's film version, scripted by none other than Ray Bradbury.

The Guardian - Books

Her range is formidable; the high tones have accuracy and brilliance, and the low are firm and vibrant.

The New York Times - Arts

"The Alamo," which opens nationwide today, lacks the telling ruggedness of William C. Davis's roiling and formidable tome "Road to the Alamo: The Lives and Fortunes of David Crockett, James Bowie and William Barret Travis" -- though the book must have inspired much of this picture's tone.

The New York Times

Her voice is startling, with its dark, bronzed tone and formidable agility.

The Guardian - Music

His Rosina, another debutante, is Daniela Mack, all dark tone and formidable coloratura: José Fardilha's fussy, unusually endearing Bartolo hasn't got a chance against her tantrums and scorn.

The Guardian - Music

Mussorgsky's unremitting meditation on mortality, meanwhile, was simply outstanding, its seductive morbidity and nihilistic violence all the more chilling for being delivered with such beauty of tone and formidable authority.

The Guardian - Music

He has a formidable technique, but a steely tone and assertive interpretive approach.

The New York Times

In all this the South African tenor Colin Lee is the magnetic centre, singing with formidable purity and range of tone.

The Guardian - Music

Until just before his death, Mr. Tormé was in complete command of a formidable pop-jazz technique in which every tone was a perfectly formed pearl in an immaculate necklace of polished musical phrases.

The New York Times - Arts

The hour-long 2014 work "A mist is a collection of points," for piano, percussion, and sine tones (pure electronic tones), is one of Pisaro's most formidable achievements.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "formidable tone" when you want to convey a sense of authority, power, or impressiveness in someone's voice, writing, or general demeanor.

Common error

Avoid using "formidable tone" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "strong voice" or "assertive manner" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formidable tone" functions as a descriptive term, typically used to characterize a manner of expression. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It describes a tone that is impressive, powerful, or intimidating. Examples from Ludwig show it applied to voices, writing styles, and general demeanors.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Music

20%

Arts

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "formidable tone" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to describe a tone that is impressive, powerful, or intimidating. Common usage contexts include news, media, music, and the arts, reflecting a neutral to professional register. While examples are not very common, reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian demonstrate its appropriate application. To effectively use "formidable tone", convey authority and avoid overuse in informal settings. Alternatives such as "imposing style" or "powerful voice" may be more suitable in certain contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imposing style

Emphasizes the impressive and commanding nature of the style.

powerful voice

Focuses on the strength and effectiveness of the voice.

commanding presence

Highlights the ability to dominate or control attention.

authoritative manner

Stresses the expertise and confidence in one's behavior.

forceful expression

Indicates a strong and assertive way of communicating.

impressive character

Focuses on the admirable and striking qualities of a person's character.

intimidating demeanor

Highlights the capacity to cause fear or respect through one's behavior.

strong delivery

Emphasizes the impactful and effective presentation of something.

influential articulation

Focuses on the ability to shape opinions or actions through clear expression.

remarkable intensity

Highlights the exceptional level of passion or strength.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "formidable tone" in a sentence?

Use "formidable tone" to describe a manner that commands attention and respect, such as, "The lawyer delivered her closing argument with a "formidable tone", leaving no doubt about her client's innocence."

What are some alternatives to using "formidable tone"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use phrases like "imposing style", "powerful voice", or "authoritative manner" to convey a similar meaning.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "formidable tone"?

It's suitable for describing powerful speeches, assertive writing styles, or any situation where someone's manner is impressively strong and commanding. It is most appropriate in formal writing or when analyzing character portrayals.

What's the difference between "formidable tone" and "strong tone"?

"Formidable tone" implies a level of impressiveness and authority, while "strong tone" simply suggests forcefulness. "Formidable" adds an element of being awe-inspiring or somewhat intimidating.