What is formidable? Pronunciation and usage in English

formidable means . Learn how to pronounce and use formidable through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of formidable

formidableadjective

/fəˈmɪdəbl//ˈfɔːrmɪdəbl/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "formidable" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown with phonetic symbols and a spoken explanation:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˈfɔːr.mɪ.deɪ.bəl/

Let's break that down:

  • ˈfɔːr: (stress on this syllable) - Roughly pronounced like "for" but with a longer, more open "o" sound (like in “bore”).
  • mɪ: - Pronounced like "mick" - a short "i" sound, like in "bit."
  • deɪ: - Pronounced like "day" - the vowel sound is similar to the "a" in "say."
  • bəl: - Pronounced like "bull" – a short, abrupt "uh" sound followed by a soft "l."

2. Explanation & Tips for Sounding Right:

  • The ‘f’: Don't stress too hard on the 'f'. It's a light, quick sound.

  • 'For' Sound: The first syllable ("for") is key. Make sure your mouth is open a bit wider than you think you need for "for." The vowel sound is longer and a bit more rounded than a typical "for."

  • 'Mick' Sound: The second syllable ("mick") is quick and light.

  • 'Day' Sound: The third syllable ("day") is like the “a” in “say.”

  • 'Bull' Sound: The final syllable ("bull") is a quick, closed “uh” sound followed by a very soft 'l' (almost like a very brief “luh”).

3. Putting it Together - A Closer Sounding Version:

Think of it like this: "For-mick-day-bull"

4. Resources for Hearing it:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you having trouble with a specific part of the word (e.g., the “for” sound)?

Usage and examples with the word formidable in English

Let's break down how to use the word "formidable" effectively in English. It's a powerful word with a specific nuance!

1. Core Meaning: Powerful and Inspiring Fear

At its heart, "formidable" means impressively large or powerful; inspiring fear or awe. It suggests something that is difficult to overcome or deal with. It's more than just "big" or "strong"; it carries an element of respect, and sometimes, a touch of apprehension.

2. How to Use It – Different Contexts

Here's how you can use "formidable" in various sentences, categorized for clarity:

  • Describing People: (This is a very common usage)

    • “She was a formidable opponent in the debate, presenting well-researched arguments with unwavering confidence.” (Meaning: she was incredibly strong and difficult to defeat.)
    • “He’s a formidable negotiator – you always know he’ll get what he wants.” (Meaning: he's skilled and powerful in negotiations.)
    • “She became a formidable force in the industry, pushing boundaries and challenging established norms.” (Meaning: she gained significant power and influence.)

  • Describing Challenges/Obstacles:

    • “The mountain presented a formidable challenge to the climbers.” (Meaning: it was extremely difficult and dangerous.)
    • “The economic downturn posed a formidable obstacle to the small business.” (Meaning: it was a very serious and difficult problem.)
    • “They faced a formidable task in rebuilding the city after the earthquake.” (Meaning: a huge and daunting task.)

  • Describing Skills/Abilities:

    • “He has a formidable knowledge of ancient history.” (Meaning: he possesses very deep and impressive knowledge.)
    • “She developed a formidable reputation for her attention to detail.” (Meaning: she was known for being meticulous and thorough.)

  • More Figurative/Dramatic Use:

    • “The dragon was a formidable guardian of the treasure.” (Meaning: it was incredibly powerful and intimidating.)
    • “The storm was a formidable sight – the waves were enormous.” (Meaning: impressive and awe-inspiring in a slightly frightening way).

3. Key Nuances & Considerations

  • Positive Connotation (Generally): "Formidable" is usually a positive descriptor. It suggests strength, skill, and resilience. However, it can carry a slightly negative connotation if used to describe someone who is overly aggressive or domineering, but that's less common.

  • Stronger Than "Strong": Don't use "formidable" simply to mean "strong." It implies a degree of respect and awe. “Strong” is a more neutral term.

  • Can Be Formal: “Formidable” is a more sophisticated word and is often found in formal writing and speech.

4. Synonyms (Words with Similar Meanings)

  • Powerful
  • Impressive
  • Daunting
  • Significant
  • Remarkable
  • Mighty

Example Sentences Demonstrating Usage:

  • "The team faced a formidable rival in the championship game."
  • “Despite the difficulties, she remained a formidable advocate for her cause.”
  • “The scientist’s formidable research had a lasting impact on the field.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about using "formidable" in? (e.g., writing a story, a formal essay, a casual conversation?)

Synonyms for the word formidable

Practice with vocabulary formidable

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company faced a ____________ task of restructuring its global operations within a tight deadline, requiring immense effort and strategic planning.
  2. Despite their initial setbacks, the team presented a ____________ proposal that addressed all client concerns and outlined a clear path forward.
  3. Known for her rigorous research and compelling arguments, Dr. Lee is a ____________ scholar whose work is respected across multiple disciplines.
  4. The board's decision to invest heavily in sustainable energy solutions was met with broad approval, reflecting a ____________ commitment to environmental stewardship.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word best describes a competitor who is exceptionally skilled, experienced, and therefore extremely challenging to beat? a) mediocre b) negligible c) formidable d) ordinary e) harmless

  2. A highly complex and well-guarded system presents a ____________ obstacle for unauthorized access. Select all appropriate words. a) trivial b) formidable c) minor d) impenetrable e) significant

  3. To describe a person or entity that inspires both respect and a certain degree of apprehension due to their power, skill, or influence, you might use: a) unimpressive b) weak c) formidable d) influential e) powerful

  4. The project's budget constraints made its successful completion a ____________ endeavor. Choose the most fitting words. a) straightforward b) simple c) challenging d) effortless e) difficult

  5. Which words describe something that is vast in size or extent, making it impressive or difficult to comprehend? a) miniature b) colossal c) immense d) insignificant e) tiny

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The legal team's extensive preparation and deep understanding of the law made them a very difficult opponent. Rewrite using "formidable":

  2. Original: Overcoming the severe logistical hurdles required an exceptionally great effort from everyone involved. Rewrite using a form of "formidable":

  3. Original: The amount of data we need to process before the deadline is quite overwhelming. Rewrite without using "formidable", but using a suitable replacement word:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. formidable
  2. comprehensive
  3. formidable
  4. steadfast

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) formidable
  2. b) formidable, d) impenetrable, e) significant
  3. c) formidable, d) influential, e) powerful
  4. c) challenging, e) difficult
  5. b) colossal, c) immense

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The legal team's extensive preparation and deep understanding of the law made them a formidable opponent.
  2. Overcoming the severe logistical hurdles required a formidably great effort from everyone involved.
  3. The amount of data we need to process before the deadline is quite immense.

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