more formidable challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more formidable challenge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a challenge that is greater or more difficult than a previous one. Example: "The new project presents a more formidable challenge than we initially anticipated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

A more formidable challenge is simply to read well.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The more formidable challenge was to make Mr. Allen smile.

The New York Times

Rappelling down the outside to open the sealed windows was a more formidable challenge.

The New York Times

The Bengals' emerging duo of Andy Dalton and Green will pose a much more formidable challenge.

The New York Times

Cincinnati's emerging twosome of Andy Dalton and Green will pose a much more formidable challenge.

The New York Times

Motherhood, though, poses a more formidable challenge for the armed forces.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

But far more formidable challenges lie ahead.

The New York Times

If the speed of advancement in this area continues apace, even some of the more formidable challenges, such as single strand sequencing and the $1,000 genome, might be overcome not just in our lifetimes, but within the foreseeable future.

Science Magazine

But if it becomes widely used, TokBox will face more formidable technical challenges than YouTube.

The New York Times

"TokBox will face more formidable technical challenges than YouTube," Stone says, which is exactly right.

TechCrunch

More formidable is the challenge that comes when every day is busy making scientific observations on that unwavering schedule.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "more formidable challenge" when you want to emphasize that a particular challenge is significantly more difficult or demanding than previous ones. It's effective for highlighting increased intensity or complexity.

Common error

While "formidable" is a strong word, avoid using "more formidable challenge" in very casual settings. In less formal contexts, consider simpler alternatives like "bigger challenge" or "tougher challenge" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more formidable challenge" functions as a noun phrase, where "more formidable" acts as a pre-modifying adjective intensifying the difficulty of the "challenge". It describes a task or situation that presents a significant degree of difficulty, greater than something previously encountered. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more formidable challenge" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a task or situation that presents a greater degree of difficulty compared to something else. As affirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is versatile, appearing frequently in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts, and is appropriate for formal, professional, and neutral registers. When using this phrase, ensure that it aligns with the tone and formality of your writing. Consider alternatives like "greater challenge" or "tougher challenge" for less formal situations. The phrase effectively conveys the intensity and complexity of a challenge, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

greater challenge

Replaces "more formidable" with a simpler adjective, focusing on the size of the challenge.

tougher challenge

Uses a more informal adjective to describe the difficulty.

stiffer challenge

Implies a more rigid or resistant obstacle.

more daunting challenge

Highlights the intimidating nature of the challenge.

more difficult obstacle

Shifts from "challenge" to "obstacle", emphasizing the obstruction aspect.

greater obstacle

Simpler alternative, focuses on the magnitude of the obstacle.

more intense difficulty

Replaces 'challenge' with 'difficulty,' focusing on the level of intensity.

increasingly hard task

Highlights the escalation of difficulty and uses "task" instead of "challenge".

a bigger hurdle to overcome

Uses a metaphorical term "hurdle" to describe the challenge.

a steeper hill to climb

Offers a more figurative expression of difficulty, implying effort and progress.

FAQs

How can I use "more formidable challenge" in a sentence?

You can use "more formidable challenge" to describe a task or situation that presents a greater level of difficulty or complexity than something previously encountered. For example: "Adapting to the new regulations posed a "more formidable challenge" than anticipated".

What are some alternatives to saying "more formidable challenge"?

Alternatives include "greater challenge", "tougher challenge", "more daunting challenge", or "stiffer challenge". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "more formidable challenge" in formal writing?

Yes, "more formidable challenge" is appropriate for formal writing. The word "formidable" adds a level of sophistication and emphasizes the significant nature of the challenge.

What's the difference between "formidable challenge" and "more formidable challenge"?

"Formidable challenge" refers to a significant challenge in general. "More formidable challenge" indicates that the challenge is greater or more difficult compared to a previous or existing challenge.