Formal

/ˈfɔɹməl/ · adjective

Meaning

In accordance with established forms..

Definitions by Sense

1. In accordance with established forms.
2. Official.
3. Relating to the form or structure of something.
4. Relating to formation.
5. Ceremonial or traditional.
6. Proper, according to strict etiquette; not casual.
7. Organized; well-structured and planned.
8. (especially sciences, mathematics, linguistics) In accordance with a methodological framework with well-defined rules or laws; rigorous.

Example Sentences

She spoke formal English, without any dialect.

I'd like to make a formal complaint.

Despite efforts by limnologists and freshwater biologists to create a formal definition of “pond”, there is still no universal distinction between a “pond” and a “lake”.

Formal linguistics ignores the vocabulary of languages and focuses solely on their grammar.

THE THREE DOMINANT FORMS IN METALSMITHING […] At present, there are but three basic volumetric forms dominating the work of metalsmiths, the spherical (usually in its most practical form, the domical), the cylindrical, and the cubical. […] The possibilities for further variations on them are all but exhausted, there being little chance to express new and unusual ideas within the framework of such limited choices. As a result, much of twentieth-century metalsmithing has relied on surface enrichment rather than formal development for its originality.

The formal stage is a critical part of any child's development.

Formal wear must be worn at my wedding!

He's always very formal, and I wish he'd relax a bit.

Synonyms for formal

Antonyms for formal

Related Words

Word Forms

• more formal
• most formal
• formals

Usage Notes

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