imposing voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "imposing voice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a voice that commands attention or respect, often due to its strength or authority. Example: "The speaker's imposing voice filled the auditorium, captivating the audience from the very first word."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Those with a diminutive build but imposing voice should perch in the shadows.

The Guardian

Although he is slight and wiry, he raps with a sonorous and imposing voice.

The New Yorker

But with his deep, dark and imposing voice, he again proved ideal as Gurnemanz, a veteran knight.

The New York Times - Arts

She doesn't have a huge, imposing voice, but she's versatile, dabbling in jazz and reggae phrasings with ease.

The New York Times

He then headed for his favourite city, London, to act the Player King in Kenneth Branagh's interminable Hamlet (1996) and was called on for his imposing voice to narrate Disney's animated feature Hercules.

The Guardian - Film

Tall, square-jawed and graced with an imposing voice so deep that it seemed to begin at his ankles, Mr. Halberstam came into his own as a journalist in the early 1960s covering the nascent American war in South Vietnam for The New York Times.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

She had her own teaching style, which I might characterise as magisterial mixed with self-effacing, except that it was difficult for someone as imposing of voice and stature as Lucille to be self-effacing.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Lubovitch never really imposes his voice.

The New York Times - Arts

Over it all is Calvi's voice, imposing, tempestuous, carnal – then falling into a whisper, spent.

The Guardian - Music

But there is still something of her father in the imposing frame, gravelly voice and flair for provocation.

The Economist

This no doubt contributed to those natural assets – voice, imposing physical presence, a certain gravitas – that already marked him out for senior and authoritarian roles.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character or figure, use "imposing voice" to quickly convey authority and gravitas.

Common error

Avoid using "imposing voice" in casual settings. It sounds unnatural and overly formal when describing everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "imposing voice" functions as an attributive adjective modifying the noun "voice". It describes a quality of the voice, indicating that it is commanding and attention-grabbing. As Ludwig AI explains, it is considered a standard expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "imposing voice" effectively describes a voice that commands attention and respect, often due to its strength, depth, or clarity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, it finds frequent use in News & Media and Encyclopedias. Alternatives like "commanding voice" or "authoritative voice" offer similar connotations. When writing, reserve "imposing voice" for situations where you want to emphasize the speaker's authority or presence, and avoid using it in informal contexts where it may sound unnatural.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

commanding voice

Focuses on the authority and control conveyed by the voice, rather than its sheer size or presence.

authoritative voice

Emphasizes the credibility and expertise suggested by the voice.

powerful voice

Highlights the strength and impact of the voice.

resonant voice

Draws attention to the rich and full quality of the voice.

booming voice

Stresses the loudness and carrying power of the voice.

formidable voice

Indicates that the voice is capable of inspiring fear or respect due to its strength.

deep voice

Refers to the low pitch and tone of the voice, which can contribute to a sense of authority.

strong voice

A more general term emphasizing the projection and clarity of the voice.

impressive voice

Highlights the voice's ability to make a positive impact on listeners.

stentorian voice

Emphasizes a loud, powerful, and far-reaching voice, often used in formal settings.

FAQs

How to use "imposing voice" in a sentence?

You can use "imposing voice" to describe someone who commands attention with their voice. For example, "The professor's "imposing voice" silenced the crowded lecture hall".

What can I say instead of "imposing voice"?

Alternatives include "commanding voice", "authoritative voice", or "powerful voice", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "imposing voice" formal or informal?

"Imposing voice" leans toward the formal side. It's suitable for describing someone in a position of authority or someone with a naturally commanding presence.

What makes a voice "imposing"?

An imposing voice typically has qualities such as depth, resonance, and clarity. It may also be associated with a confident and deliberate manner of speaking.