he is formidable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is formidable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is impressively powerful, capable, or intimidating in some way. Example: "In the debate, he is formidable, easily outsmarting his opponents with his quick wit and extensive knowledge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

He is formidable in his faculty.

The New York Times - Arts

As Hanssen, he is formidable, saturnine, humorless — a pious sadist who likes to put people on the spot.

The New Yorker

He is formidable enough, in fact, to have deterred several major-party candidates from running, particularly Democrats.

The New York Times

As Hanssen, he is formidable, saturnine, humorless a pious sadist who likes to put people on the spot.

The New Yorker

As Brooks, he is formidable and distant at work, relaxed and authoritative at home, and sardonic and almost viciously funny on his late-night jaunts.

The New Yorker

Federer is as consistent as he is formidable – this is his 23rd consecutive grand slam semi-final and he has not been ranked outside the world's top two since 2003.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But he's strong and smart and he's formidable".

The New York Times

On Wednesday, he was formidable, too, although he was uncharacteristically off-target early on.

The New York Times - Sports

He'd sung this two-hour set and he was formidable.

The Guardian - Music

"You wouldn't cast him in a remake of 'Father Knows Best.' He's formidable".

The New York Times

I think he's formidable, an absolute legend and I'd love him to come for dinner at my house.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he is formidable" to convey a sense of respect and perhaps a degree of caution when describing someone's capabilities or influence. It's stronger than simply saying someone is 'good'.

Common error

While "he is formidable" is a powerful descriptor, avoid using it too casually in informal settings. Overusing it can make your language sound stilted or pretentious. Consider more casual alternatives in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is formidable" functions primarily as a descriptive statement, attributing a quality of being impressively powerful or capable to a male subject. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. The examples illustrate its use in describing individuals in various fields.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "he is formidable" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, employed to describe someone possessing impressive power, skill, or influence. While the phrase can be applied across various contexts, its usage is most frequent in news and media. The phrase is considered neutral in register, suitable for conveying respect and a degree of caution. Alternatives such as "he is impressive" or "he is powerful" may be used depending on the specific nuance desired. When using the phrase, be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in casual conversations. The sources and usage indicate it is less common in informal, academic, encyclopedic and wiki contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he is impressive

This alternative focuses on the positive impact someone makes, emphasizing admiration and respect.

he is powerful

This alternative emphasizes the strength and authority someone possesses.

he is a force to be reckoned with

This alternative highlights the need to take someone seriously due to their capabilities.

he is commanding

This suggests someone has a strong presence and inspires obedience.

he is intimidating

This focuses on the aspect of causing fear or apprehension.

he is a dominant figure

This implies a position of control and influence over others.

he is a strong contender

This alternative refers to someone who is in competition and has a high chance of winning.

he is a tough opponent

This focuses on the difficulty of competing against someone.

he is a skilled operator

This refers to someone capable and effective, particularly in a specific field or situation.

he is highly competent

This emphasizes someone's ability to perform a task effectively.

FAQs

What does "he is formidable" mean?

The phrase "he is formidable" describes someone who inspires respect and perhaps some degree of fear or awe due to their power, skill, or talent.

What are some synonyms for "he is formidable"?

Alternatives include "he is impressive", "he is powerful", or "he is a force to be reckoned with", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "he is formidable" in a sentence?

You might say, "As a negotiator, he is formidable, always securing the best deals for his clients." Or, "He is no longer the double-digit strikeout pitcher he was only a few years ago, but he is formidable -- a lethal mix of burly body and steely discipline."

Is "he is formidable" a formal or informal expression?

"He is formidable" leans towards the formal side but can be used in neutral contexts. It's less appropriate for very casual conversations.