Forms Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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forms

[fɔːmz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

official document

Forms are official documents with spaces where you can write information. They are commonly used for applications, registrations, and legal purposes.

Synonyms

application, document, paperwork.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
forms

Used to refer to printed or digital templates to be filled out with specific information.

  • Please fill out these forms before your appointment.
  • The forms are available for download on our website.
document

A general term for any written or printed record, usually official, that provides information or proof.

  • Make sure to bring the necessary documents to your interview.
  • I need to scan this document and email it to my lawyer.
paperwork

Refers to a collection of documents and forms, especially those required for administrative procedures. Often implies a cumbersome or bureaucratic task.

  • The adoption process involves a lot of paperwork.
  • I've been buried in paperwork since I started this new job.
application

Used when referring to the process or document required to apply for something, such as a job, scholarship, or permit.

  • I submitted my job application online.
  • The application process for the scholarship is quite competitive.

Examples of usage

  • Please fill out this form with your personal details.
  • The form must be submitted by the deadline.
Context #2 | Noun

shape or structure

In a broader sense, forms can also refer to the shape or structure of an object. It can describe the physical appearance or arrangement of something.

Synonyms

appearance, shape, structure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
forms

This word is often used to refer to the visible shape or configuration of something, or different types of documents and papers.

  • Please fill out these forms and return them to the office.
  • The sculptor gave the clay many forms.
shape

Shape is commonly used to talk about the outline or external boundary of an object.

  • The shape of the car was sleek and modern.
  • What is the shape of the table?
structure

Structure refers to the arrangement or organization of parts to form a whole, often used in more technical or formal contexts.

  • The structure of the building was solid and well-designed.
  • They analyzed the structure of the DNA molecule.
appearance

Appearance is used when referring to how something looks on the outside.

  • Her appearance has changed a lot over the years.
  • The house's appearance improved after the renovation.

Examples of usage

  • The artist focused on capturing the unique form of the sculpture.
  • The building had a modern and innovative form.
Context #3 | Verb

to shape or mold

As a verb, 'forms' means to give shape or structure to something. It involves creating or molding something into a specific form or pattern.

Synonyms

create, mold, shape.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
forms

Used as a plural noun when referring to documents used to collect information.

  • Please fill out these forms to complete your application.
  • The hospital requires several forms for admissions.
shape

Used when influencing the development or characteristics of something or someone.

  • Experiences during childhood often shape a person's personality.
  • The teacher's guidance helps to shape the students' futures.
mold

Used when shaping something using a mold (a container or pattern). This term can also have a negative connotation when used to describe someone being very controlling or rigid.

  • They mold the clay into beautiful pottery.
  • He tries to mold his children's behavior too strictly.
create

Used when bringing something new into existence, often involving imagination or creativity.

  • He loves to create beautiful paintings.
  • The engineers create innovative solutions for complex problems.

Examples of usage

  • The potter forms clay into beautiful pottery.
  • Education helps to form a person's character.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

  • In visual arts, forms can refer to the three-dimensional shapes that artists create, bringing depth to their work.
  • The term is important in sculpture, where the solidity and shape of a piece can define its aesthetic appeal.
  • Famous artists like Henry Moore often explored forms in abstract ways, making viewers think about what shapes really mean.

Mathematics

  • In math, forms refer to geometric shapes such as circles, squares, and triangles, each with unique properties.
  • The concept of 'forms' is crucial in understanding spatial relationships and dimensions.
  • Formulas in math can express the properties of these shapes, helping to calculate areas and volumes.

Philosophy

  • In philosophy, the concept of forms is central to Plato's theory, which posits that the physical world is just a shadow of a more perfect realm of forms.
  • This idea suggests that everything we see is just an imperfect imitation of these ideal forms.
  • Aristotle later adapted this theory, explaining that forms exist within objects themselves, not separately.

Culture

  • In literature, forms refer to different types of writing, like poems, essays, and stories, each having its own structure.
  • Cultural expressions like dance and music also have various forms, showing diversity in how people can express creativity.
  • Different cultural backgrounds may favor particular forms, illustrating the rich tapestry of global art.

Origin of 'forms'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has Latin origins, derived from 'forma,' which means shape or appearance.
  • In French, 'forme' also means shape, showing how languages can share similar roots.
  • This word has been used in English since the 14th century, illustrating the long-standing interest in shapes and structures.

The word 'forms' originated from the Latin word 'formare', which means 'to shape' or 'to create'. Over time, it evolved to encompass various meanings related to structure, document, and creation. Forms play a crucial role in bureaucracy, design, and art, shaping our interactions and perceptions in multiple contexts.


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

Word Frequency Rank

At #520 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.