French Conversation · Level 56
75 words
French word
formidable
Pronunciation
IPA/fɔʁmidabl/
Meaning
- adjectivegreat
Example
C'est formidable.
That's great.
More examples
Le spectacle était formidable hier soir.
The show was wonderful last night.
Core concept
A force that commands attention and respect, either through excellence or through its strength against opposition.
Common phrases
quelqu'un de formidable
a wonderful person
un formidable spectacle
a magnificent show
Similar words
génial: Exceptionally good, inspiring admiration and delight.
super: Very good and satisfying, bringing pleasure and enjoyment.
fantastique: Extraordinarily wonderful, inspiring amazement and admiration.
incroyable: So excellent and astonishing that it is hard to believe.
Definition in French
Qui suscite une admiration vive ou un étonnement positif ; peut aussi désigner une personne ou une chose difficile à vaincre.
Word origin
Formidable entered French from the Latin family of formido, fear, and its earlier fear-based meaning broadened into admiration as well as daunting strength.
Usage tips
- With a person or opponent, formidable often means tough to beat, while in C'est formidable ! it normally expresses enthusiastic approval.