it can be formidable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can be formidable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has the potential to be intimidating, impressive, or challenging in nature. Example: "The task ahead may seem daunting, but remember, it can be formidable if we work together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Málaga has financial problems, but it can be formidable in its compact and raucous La Rosaleda Stadium.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

West Indies were generally poor during the ODI series (England ought to have won all three matches) but when it comes to the shortest form they can be formidable.

The Guardian - Sport

"I spin the ball in, he spins it away and a partnership like that can be formidable".

BBC

When he is driving it in the fairway, the 28-year-old Oosthuizen can be formidable, and he has been steady in practice rounds trying to get the same rhythm he had going into St.

The New York Times

So did her voice, which, she acknowledged, can be formidable.

The New York Times

But good or bad, magnetic or repellent, their charisma can be formidable.

The New York Times - Arts

Under the present system, the barriers to higher education can be formidable.

The Guardian

This amounts to a hugely ambitious programme.Resistance to change in Italy can be formidable, and violent.

The Economist

The charisma of these sites can be formidable, and this deeply felt multimedia show conveys a strong sense of that.

The New York Times - Arts

Still, the barriers for an older person thinking about going online can be formidable, Ms. Dichter said.

The New York Times - Tech

"At times he can be unplayable, I think a lot of centre-backs who have marked him will tell you that on his day he can be formidable.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it can be formidable" when you want to express that something has the potential to be powerful, impressive, or challenging, but not necessarily that it is already so. This phrasing allows for a sense of anticipation or possibility.

Common error

Avoid using "it can be formidable" to describe everyday situations that are only mildly challenging. Reserve this phrase for scenarios involving real power, strength, or a significant degree of difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be formidable" functions as a descriptor, attributing a potential quality of being impressive, powerful, or challenging to a subject. Ludwig examples confirm this usage in diverse contexts. The phrase suggests a capacity rather than a current state.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it can be formidable" describes something with the potential to be strong, impressive, or challenging. Ludwig indicates that it's considered grammatically correct and usable. Although its frequency is rare, it appears in diverse sources like news, science, and encyclopedias. The phrase functions to highlight a possible future state rather than a present one, conveying a sense of anticipation. Avoid overuse in overly simplistic situations to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it can be intensely powerful

This alternative stresses the high degree of potential power.

it could be exceptionally strong

This alternative focuses on an elevated level of potential strength.

it has the potential to be daunting

This alternative emphasizes the intimidating aspect of something's potential.

it might become remarkably effective

This alternative highlights the possibility of a high degree of effectiveness.

it could prove to be challenging

This alternative focuses on the difficulty or challenge that something might present.

it may develop into a real powerhouse

This alternative stresses the possibility of growing to become an entity full of strength.

it may turn out to be powerful

This alternative highlights the potential strength and influence of something.

it could become a force to be reckoned with

This alternative emphasizes the need to consider something as a significant power.

it might emerge as a major threat

This alternative emphasizes the potential danger that something might pose.

it has the makings of something impressive

This alternative focuses on the elements that could lead to a strong positive impression.

FAQs

How can I use "it can be formidable" in a sentence?

Use "it can be formidable" to describe something that possesses the potential to be powerful, impressive, or challenging. For example: "Though small now, "it can be formidable" with the right resources".

What's the difference between "it can be formidable" and "it is formidable"?

"It can be formidable" suggests a potential for strength or challenge, while "it is formidable" describes something currently possessing those qualities. The former implies a future possibility, the latter a current state.

Which is correct, "it can be formidable" or "it could be formidable"?

Both are correct, but they convey slightly different nuances. "It can be formidable" suggests a general possibility, while "it could be formidable" implies a conditional or uncertain possibility. The choice depends on the specific context.

What can I say instead of "it can be formidable"?

You can use alternatives like "it can be challenging", "it may prove difficult", or "it might become powerful" depending on the context.