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Formally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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formally

[ˈfɔːməli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a formal manner

In a manner that is officially recognized or done in accordance with established rules or conventions.

Synonyms

correctly, officially, properly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
formally

Used in situations that require a high level of etiquette, politeness, or professionalism.

  • He was formally introduced to the company's president.
  • The event will be formally announced at a press conference.
officially

Used when something is done or said in a formal or authorized manner, often related to government or organizational procedures.

  • The decision has been officially documented.
  • They are not officially allowed to enter the building.
properly

Used when referring to doing something in the right manner or appropriately, often with an implication of attention to detail.

  • You need to dress properly for the ceremony.
  • Ensure that the equipment is properly maintained.
correctly

Used when referring to doing something in the right way, following rules or guidelines accurately.

  • She answered the question correctly.
  • Make sure to correctly fill out the application form.

Examples of usage

  • He dressed formally for the interview.
  • She spoke formally to her superiors.
Context #2 | Adjective

following or according to tradition or conventions

Following or according to tradition or conventions; established and not subject to change.

Synonyms

ceremonial, conventional, traditional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
formally

Used when describing something in a manner that follows accepted rules or customs strictly and usually refers to polite, official, or professional situations.

  • He dressed formally for the gala event.
  • The letter began with a formally structured greeting.
traditional

Describes practices, beliefs, or customs that have been passed down through generations, emphasizing cultural heritage and long-standing habits.

  • They celebrated the festival with traditional dances and songs.
  • The recipe has been handed down through traditional methods for centuries.
conventional

Refers to something that conforms to established practices, norms, or standards, often highlighting an ordinary or typical approach.

  • Her wedding was very conventional, with a white dress and church ceremony.
  • He prefers to stick to conventional methods in his research.
ceremonial

Best used when referring to events or activities involving a ceremony or ritual, often with a sense of grandeur or tradition.

  • The king wore his ceremonial robe during the coronation.
  • The ceremonial opening of the new building attracted many dignitaries.

Examples of usage

  • The wedding was a formal occasion.
  • They had a formal dinner party.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, formal events, like weddings or graduations, have specific attire and rituals that highlight the importance of the occasion.
  • Formality can vary widely across cultures; for instance, Japanese tea ceremonies emphasize precise, formal actions that express respect.
  • In business settings, formal communication often involves using titles and last names, adding layers of respect in professional relationships.

Sociolinguistics

  • The use of formal language can indicate social status or professionalism; people often adjust their speech based on their audience.
  • Certain contexts, such as courts or academic presentations, require formal language to convey authority and clarity.
  • Research shows that using formal language can enhance perceptions of credibility and reliability in communications.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that using formal communication can create a psychological distance, making interactions feel more professional and less personal.
  • The switch between formal and informal language can affect how connections are perceived; formality can sometimes establish boundaries.
  • Individuals may feel more confident expressing serious topics when using formal language, as it reflects structure and authority.

Education

  • In academic writing, formality is essential; it often requires specific structures and avoidance of colloquialisms to maintain seriousness.
  • Students are taught to recognize when to use formal versus informal language to adapt to different audiences and contexts.
  • Understanding the difference enhances communication skills, preparing individuals for both professional settings and academic discussions.

Origin of 'formally'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'formally' comes from the Latin word 'formalis', which means 'pertaining to form' or 'shaped'.
  • The transition to English occurred around the late 15th century, reflecting increasing influence from Latin in academic and legal language.
  • In the 19th century, 'formally' began to gain prominence in written and spoken language, emphasizing structure and adherence to norms.

The word 'formally' originated from the Latin word 'formalis', which means 'pertaining to form'. It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe actions or situations that adhere to established rules or traditions. Over time, 'formally' has become a common adverb and adjective in English language, used to indicate official or traditional practices.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,243 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.