Redoubtable
hardPositive tonerih-DOW-tuh-bul
adjective
Definition
formidable, especially as an opponent; commanding respect or fear
Memory hook
REDOUBTABLE: an opponent so strong you DOUBT (redouter = to dread) you can ever beat them — formidable beyond question.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“She was a redoubtable debater whom few classmates dared to challenge.”
“The fortress, defended by redoubtable warriors, had never fallen to a siege.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She was a ______ debater whom few classmates dared to challenge.”
Show answer
redoubtable
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Redoubtable is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "formidable" or "fearsome" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "feeble".
Related GRE Words
aggrandize
To increase the power, status, or wealth of; to make appear greater
approbation
official or warm approval and praise
circumscribe
to restrict or limit the bounds of
deprecate
to express strong disapproval of; to belittle
egregious
conspicuously and outrageously bad
felicitous
well-chosen and apt; pleasingly suitable
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