less formidable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less formidable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not as intimidating or powerful as something else. Example: "While the first challenge was daunting, the second one seemed less formidable in comparison."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The Sonics' frontline was far less formidable.

The New York Times

Being smaller, the object as a whole seems less formidable.

The New Yorker

UConn's success appears no less formidable than U.C.L.A.'s.

The New York Times - Sports

The challenges on the foreign front are no less formidable.

The New York Times

That doesn't mean the task is any less formidable.

The Guardian

Sans Mr Duceppe, the Bloc would be a less formidable foe.

The Economist

MacGill and Saqlain Mushtaq of Pakistan had shorter test careers, but were scarcely less formidable.

The New York Times - Sports

On the French southwestern and southern coasts similar, though less formidable, defenses were erected.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the past Iran has found clever ways to circumvent an array of less formidable sanctions.

The Economist

The cursed range rose to the west, looking no less formidable than it had from Gusinje.

The New York Times - Travel

For the moment at least, China is far less formidable than hawks on both sides claim.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add clarity when using "less formidable", specify what it is less formidable than. This comparison offers context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "less formidable" when you actually mean something is completely harmless or easy. "Less formidable" indicates a relative decrease in strength, not an absence of it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less formidable" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating that it possesses a lower degree of the quality of being formidable. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing reduced strength or challenge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

13%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less formidable" is a versatile tool for nuanced communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and frequently used to express a reduction in strength or challenge. It allows writers to subtly downplay the perceived difficulty or threat associated with something, making it seem more approachable. It is seen mostly in the News and Media. Keep in mind that "less formidable" indicates a comparative decrease, not a complete absence of challenge. Related alternatives include "not as daunting" and "more manageable".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as daunting

Focuses on the reduced intimidation factor.

not as intimidating

Similar to "not as daunting", it emphasizes the decrease in causing fear or apprehension.

somewhat weaker

Indicates a decrease in physical or metaphorical strength.

slightly easier

Focuses on reduced difficulty.

not as challenging

Highlights reduced difficulty.

more manageable

Implies something is easier to handle or control.

not so overpowering

Emphasizes a reduction in the sense of being overwhelmed.

paler version

Implies being only an imitation of the real thing.

diminished in strength

Describes a reduction in overall power.

attenuated power

Implies that strength has been weakened or reduced.

FAQs

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

You can use "less formidable" to describe something that is not as challenging or intimidating as something else. For example, "The task seemed "less formidable" after we broke it down into smaller steps."

What are some alternatives to "less formidable"?

Some alternatives include "not as daunting", "more manageable", or "not as intimidating depending on the specific context".

Is it grammatically correct to say "less formidable"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "less formidable" is a standard comparative construction indicating a lower degree of formidability.

What's the difference between "less formidable" and "unformidable"?

"Less formidable" indicates a relative comparison, implying something is not as imposing as something else. "Unformidable" suggests a complete absence of formidability, which is a stronger statement.