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Formal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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formal

[ˈfɔːrml ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

language

Relating to or involving the correct or appropriate way of behaving or doing something in a particular situation or context.

Synonyms

ceremonial, official, proper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
formal

Used in situations that require strict following of set rules, structure, and etiquette, such as business meetings, legal documents, or traditional events.

  • The wedding was a formal affair, requiring all guests to dress in tuxedos and evening gowns
  • His speech at the conference was very formal and professional
official

Used when referring to actions or statements that come from someone in a position of authority or are recognized by certain institutions, such as government communications, company announcements, or regulations.

  • The official statement was released by the company regarding the merger
  • He received an official warning notice from the administration
proper

Describes something that is considered correct or appropriate according to social rules and conventions. Often used in contexts of manners, dress code, or behavior.

  • It is proper to address the judge as 'Your Honor'
  • She always sets the table in the proper way with all the utensils in their correct places
ceremonial

Refers to occasions with a number of official rituals and traditions, often related to culture or religion, such as weddings, graduations, or state functions.

  • The queen's coronation is a highly ceremonial event with many rituals
  • They had a ceremonial groundbreaking for the new building

Examples of usage

  • It is important to use formal language in a job interview.
  • She always dresses in formal attire for business meetings.
  • Being polite and respectful is a key aspect of formal communication.
Context #2 | Adjective

style

Following or being in accord with accepted or prescribed forms, conventions, or regulations.

Synonyms

conventional, standard, traditional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
formal

Used in situations that require a high level of respect and adherence to rules or customs, such as official ceremonies, professional settings, or academic writing.

  • The event had a formal dress code, requiring attendees to wear suits and gowns.
  • Please write a formal letter to express your concerns.
traditional

Applied to practices or beliefs that have been passed down through generations and are often rooted in cultural or familial heritage. It highlights continuity over time.

  • She wore a traditional dress for the cultural festival.
  • His family follows traditional customs during the holidays.
conventional

Refers to something that follows long-established practices and is typical or expected in certain society or situation. It is often used when describing methods, norms, or behavior.

  • Their wedding was very conventional, with all the customary rituals and traditions.
  • The conventional way to solve this problem is by using this formula.
standard

Used to describe something that is typical, usual, or generally accepted. It can refer to norms, guidelines, or quality levels widely recognized and followed.

  • His performance met the standard requirements for the job.
  • This book is part of the standard curriculum in many schools.

Examples of usage

  • The invitation requested formal attire for the event.
  • This restaurant has a formal dress code for dinner service.
Context #3 | Noun

event

A formal dance or social gathering.

Synonyms

ball, gala, soiree.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
formal

Used to describe events that require formal attire and usually follow a specific code of conduct. Often associated with business, diplomacy, or academic settings.

  • The company hosted a formal dinner to celebrate its anniversary
  • The ambassador attended a formal reception at the embassy
ball

Refers to a large and elegant dance party, often featuring couples dancing to live or recorded music. Traditionally associated with high society, debutantes, and special occasions.

  • She wore a beautiful gown to the annual winter ball
  • The charity ball attracted many prominent guests
gala

A special occasion that is celebrated with a large, impressive party or event, often involving entertainment and sometimes fundraising. Typically more festive and less rigid than a formal event.

  • The film festival concluded with a grand gala
  • The museum's fundraising gala was a huge success
soiree

A small, sophisticated evening gathering, usually for socializing. Often has an intimate, elegant atmosphere and can include light entertainment such as music or poetry readings.

  • They hosted a literary soiree to discuss their favorite books
  • The artist invited a few close friends to a soiree at her studio

Examples of usage

  • She attended the school's formal with her date.
  • The company hosted a formal to celebrate their anniversary.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, dressing formally for events shows respect and seriousness.
  • Formal language is often used in legal and academic writing to convey precision and clarity.
  • Different cultures have unique formal attire, like the tuxedo in Western cultures and the kimono in Japan.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people behave differently in formal settings, often influenced by social expectations.
  • Using formal communication can enhance perceptions of competence and professionalism.
  • Formal situations can create a sense of authority, impacting group dynamics.

Literature

  • Formal writing styles are prevalent in classic literature, often used by authors to convey high moral or societal themes.
  • Poets sometimes adopt a formal style to create structure and rhythm in their works.
  • The use of formal dialogue in literature can help define a character's social status or personality.

Science

  • In the context of scientific writing, a formal style is essential for clarity, allowing researchers to communicate findings effectively.
  • The formal assessment in psychology often uses standardized tests to evaluate behavior or intelligence.
  • Formal approaches in mathematics include defined rules and structures to derive conclusions logically.

Origin of 'formal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'formal' comes from the Latin 'formalis', which means 'according to form'.
  • It was first used in the English language around the late 15th century.
  • Historically, it referred to things shaped or defined with strict rules.

The word 'formal' originated from the Latin word 'formalis', which means 'of a form'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century with the meaning 'prescribed or ceremonious form'. Over time, 'formal' has evolved to encompass various meanings related to correctness, etiquette, style, and events.

See also: amorphic, conform, deform, deformed, form, formality, formally, formation, formative, formatter, formed, former, formerly, formic, forming, formless, forms, malform, malformation, multiformity, preformative, reform, unformed.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,748, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.