a formal position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formal position" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to refer to a job or role, particularly in a professional or business context. For example: "She is applying for a formal position with a large company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Upon being elected to the city council a year later, I requested we take a formal position to support an alternative to extending the 710 freeway.

Los Angeles Times

NATO has not taken a formal position.

The New York Times

The White House has yet to take a formal position.

The New York Times

He did not take a formal position on the bill passed by the House.

The New York Times

The committee said it would issue a formal position on the offer within 10 business days.

The New York Times

Washington has not taken a formal position on the sovereignty of the islands.

The Guardian

It's unclear whether that was a formal position or as a volunteer.

The Guardian

The local community board has yet to take a formal position on the ancillary buildings.

The New York Times

Although Nancy J. DiNardo, chairwoman of the Central Committee, supports him, the committee itself has not taken a formal position.

The New York Times

But he said he had no interest in a formal position with a post-Assad government, should there be one.

The New York Times

Moving into a formal position should be a progression, not a jump that leaves those making it feel exposed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about job opportunities, make it clear if the role offered is "a formal position" or something else (e.g. contract based, part-time or volunteering).

Common error

Avoid using "a formal position" when simply referring to something official without implying a carefully considered and documented stance. For example, "The official announcement" is more appropriate than "the formal position announcement."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formal position" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object or subject of a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it signifies a deliberate, official stance, job title, or recognized role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formal position" is a prevalent and versatile phrase used to denote an official stance, recognized role, or carefully considered opinion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Its use spans various contexts, especially within news media, formal business environments, and scientific discourse, though the meaning maintains an element of formality. When choosing to use the phrase, remember it suggests a deliberate and authoritative declaration, as contrasted to a less formal expression. Consider alternatives like "an official stance" or "a stated policy" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an official stance

Focuses on the official and public declaration of an opinion or decision, emphasizing the formality and authority behind it.

a stated policy

Emphasizes the established and documented nature of the position, highlighting its role as a guideline or rule.

a declared opinion

Highlights the act of openly expressing a viewpoint, emphasizing the personal or organizational belief.

a public commitment

Stresses the binding nature of the position, indicating a promise or obligation to adhere to it.

a determined strategy

Suggests a planned course of action, emphasizing the proactive and goal-oriented aspect of the position.

a firm decision

Highlights the resoluteness and finality of the position, emphasizing the lack of ambiguity or hesitation.

an established viewpoint

Focuses on the long-standing and recognized nature of the position, emphasizing its history and acceptance.

a recognized role

Implies that the position is formally acknowledged and carries certain responsibilities and authority.

a designated office

Specifically refers to a position within an organization, emphasizing its place in the hierarchy and its defined duties.

a sanctioned perspective

Implies that the view has been approved or authorized by a higher authority.

FAQs

How can "a formal position" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a formal position" to describe a job role, an organization's official stance, or an individual's declared opinion. For example, "She applied for "a formal position" at the company", "The company has yet to take "a formal position" on the matter", or "The senator declared "a formal position" against the bill".

What's the difference between "a formal position" and "an official position"?

"A formal position" often implies a carefully considered, documented, and often public stance or job role. "An official position" emphasizes authority and authorization. While often interchangeable, "a formal position" suggests more deliberation.

What can I say instead of "a formal position"?

You can use alternatives like "an official stance", "a stated policy", or "a declared opinion" depending on the context.

In what context is it appropriate to use "a formal position"?

It is suitable in situations where the stance, opinion, or role is officially recognized, documented, and often communicated publicly. This is common in business, politics, and academic settings.