Formal
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /ˈfɔɹməl/ · Part of speech adjective
Quick meaning: Formal is an adjective meaning In accordance with established forms.
Meaning
In accordance with established forms.
More Meanings
- Official.
- Relating to the form or structure of something.
- Relating to formation.
- Ceremonial or traditional.
- Proper, according to strict etiquette; not casual.
- Organized; well-structured and planned.
- (especially sciences, mathematics, linguistics) In accordance with a methodological framework with well-defined rules or laws; rigorous.
Example Sentences
I'd like to make a formal complaint.
Formal wear must be worn at my wedding!
She spoke formal English, without any dialect.
He's always very formal, and I wish he'd relax a bit.
Word Forms
- formals
Synonyms for formal
Depending on context, synonyms include solemn, perfunctory, positive, conventional, elegant, stiff.
Antonyms for formal
Common opposites include informal.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include conventional, titular, perfunctory, logical, ceremonious, nominal.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.