What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
formidable
Example
The team faced a formidable opponent in the championship game. [formidable: adjective]
Example
She has a formidable intellect and is highly respected in her field. [formidable: adjective]
Example
The task of climbing the mountain seemed formidable, but they were determined to succeed. [formidable: adjective]
imposing
Example
The imposing castle loomed over the town, reminding all who saw it of its historical significance. [imposing: adjective]
Example
The CEO was an imposing figure, with a commanding presence and a sharp mind. [imposing: adjective]
Example
The imposing statue of the goddess stood tall in the center of the plaza, drawing crowds of tourists. [imposing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Imposing is more commonly used than formidable in everyday language. Imposing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while formidable is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between formidable and imposing?
Both formidable and imposing are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional contexts. However, imposing is slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
