a formal session

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formal session" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a scheduled meeting or gathering that follows established protocols or procedures, often in a professional or official context. Example: "The board will convene for a formal session to discuss the new policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

By early June it can start to arrange a formal session to remove him.

The Economist

Carty has a formal session with her Gloucester College assessor once a month, and phone and email contact with her in between sessions.

The Guardian

By convening a formal session with the leaders of Congress and asking for their assent for making war, he has effectively put the issue before the electorate.

The New York Times

But any time during the day, the British, United States and Spanish sponsors of the pending resolution on Iraq may request that the Council convene for a formal session.

The New York Times

The United Nations Security Council held a formal session last year on sexual violence, and the International Criminal Court in The Hague issued its arrest warrant for Sudan's president in part because of mass rapes.

The New York Times

He was expected to join the EU leaders for a formal session soon.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

On 13 November 2007 Schumacher, who had not driven a Formula One car since he had retired a year earlier, undertook a formal test session for the first time aboard the F2007.

Wikipedia

She urged lawmakers to come back into formal session to approve an additional $85 million in savings to help close a projected $300 million gap.

The New York Times

SIDES QUIET AFTER SESSION Negotiators for the N.F.L. and its players union met for two hours in a formal bargaining session toward a new collective bargaining agreement Saturday, their first meeting since Thanksgiving.

The New York Times

It is unclear whether the North Korean delegation, either in the formal session or in a less formal reception, indicated any willingness to trade away the nuclear program.

The New York Times

Rozman, the BoeFly moderator, wrapped up the formal session and orchestrated a question and answer session.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a formal session", ensure the context clearly indicates that the meeting or event adheres to established protocols or procedures. This helps convey the seriousness and structure of the occasion.

Common error

Avoid using "a formal session" when referring to casual or informal gatherings. The term implies a structured environment with specific rules or agenda.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formal session" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It denotes a specific event or meeting characterized by established protocols. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is perfectly usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a formal session" refers to a scheduled meeting or gathering that follows established protocols and procedures. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is most commonly found in news, science, and formal business contexts. When writing, it's crucial to reserve the term for situations where established rules and agendas are clearly in place, avoiding its use in casual scenarios. Alternatives such as "an official meeting" or "a structured meeting" can be used to provide similar meanings in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an official meeting

Replaces "formal" with "official", emphasizing the authorized nature of the session.

a structured meeting

Focuses on the organized and planned nature of the session.

a scheduled assembly

Highlights the pre-arranged and gathered aspect of the session.

a convened hearing

Implies a more official and potentially judicial context.

a planned discussion

Emphasizes the deliberative aspect of the session.

an arranged conference

Highlights the organized and potentially larger-scale nature of the session.

a procedural gathering

Focuses on the adherence to established rules and procedures.

a ceremonial sitting

Implies a formal and potentially ritualistic event.

an academic symposium

Suggests a formal and scholarly gathering on a specific topic.

a statutory meeting

Highlights that the meeting is required by law or statute.

FAQs

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

You can use "a formal session" to describe any meeting or gathering that follows established protocols. For instance, "The board will convene for "a formal session" to discuss the annual budget".

What's an alternative to "a formal session"?

Alternatives include "an official meeting", "a structured meeting", or "a scheduled assembly" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a formal session"?

"A formal session" is appropriate when referring to meetings or gatherings with defined procedures, such as board meetings, parliamentary sessions, or academic conferences. Ensure the context conveys a sense of established protocols.

What is the difference between "a formal session" and "an informal meeting"?

"A formal session" implies structured procedures and established rules, while "an informal meeting" suggests a casual, less structured gathering. Choosing the correct term depends on the context and level of formality.