a formal procedure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formal procedure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, established method or process that is followed in a professional or official context. Example: "Before we can proceed with the project, we must adhere to a formal procedure for approval."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(The group denies that it has such a formal procedure).

The New York Times

"Second, it is a society in which democracy is no more than a formal procedure.

The New York Times

A formal procedure has been put in place for the evacuations of the escaping refugees.

The New York Times

The government started a formal procedure to revoke the concession held by Autostrade.

The New York Times

"The lack of documentation and failure to apply a formal procedure does not, of itself, evidence discrimination..

The Guardian

"I don't believe we can have a formal procedure," said Mr. Aaviksoo, the Estonian minister for education.

The New York Times

Neither party on the right has a formal procedure for deciding who should lead it into battle.

The Economist

But doing so without a formal procedure in place makes the fallout from default messier and more protracted than it needs to be.

The New Yorker

In this paper, we develop a formal procedure for the coordinated synthesis of hierarchically described engineering systems.

Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering

A formal procedure exists for bailing out an insolvent bank's depositors and then winding down the institution; Mr Bernanke and others favour something similar for investment banks.

The Economist

In this paper, we derive a formal procedure to design a tracking MPC scheme so as to locally approximate the behaviour of economic MPC.

Journal of Process Control

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a formal procedure", ensure it's clear what the procedure entails and why it's necessary in the given context. Providing specific details enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid unnecessary jargon when describing "a formal procedure". Use clear, concise language to ensure everyone understands the process.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formal procedure" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to an established and structured method for carrying out a task or process. Ludwig examples show its usage in contexts ranging from business to science.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Academia

4%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formal procedure" is a common noun phrase used to describe an established and structured method for performing tasks. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various professional, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by providing sufficient details about the procedure and avoiding overly complex language. Alternatives include "an official process" or "a standard protocol", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. This phrase commonly appears in Science, News & Media, and Formal & Business contexts. The phrase is quite versatile, but make sure to explain what kind of "formal procedure" you are referring to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a standard protocol

Replaces "procedure" with "protocol", implying a set of rules or steps.

an official process

Substitutes "formal" with "official", emphasizing authorization and legitimacy.

a structured method

Focuses on the organized and systematic nature of the approach.

an established practice

Highlights the routine and customary nature of the procedure.

a defined system

Emphasizes the organized set of components and rules that comprise the procedure.

a regulated approach

Suggests that the procedure is governed by rules or laws.

a methodical technique

Highlights the systematic and careful nature of the method.

a prescribed course of action

Indicates that the procedure is mandatory or recommended.

a set of guidelines

Focuses on the guidance provided by the procedure.

a systematic framework

Emphasizes the structured and organized nature of the underlying principles.

FAQs

How can I use "a formal procedure" in a sentence?

You can use "a formal procedure" to describe an established and official method, such as, "The company has "a formal procedure" for handling customer complaints".

What are some alternatives to "a formal procedure"?

Some alternatives to "a formal procedure" include "an official process", "a standard protocol", or "a structured method".

Is it always necessary to have "a formal procedure" in place?

While not always mandatory, having "a formal procedure" ensures consistency, transparency, and accountability, especially in critical processes.

What's the difference between "a formal procedure" and "an informal process"?

"A formal procedure" is a documented and structured method, while "an informal process" is more flexible and less rigid, often relying on unwritten rules or common sense.