a formal thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formal thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an object, event, or concept that adheres to established conventions or standards of formality. Example: "The meeting was a formal thing, requiring all attendees to dress in business attire."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

We all knew Philip, but separately: it wasn't a formal thing; we didn't all meet and discuss our work.

The Guardian - Books

A confession is a formal thing.

Huffington Post

I'd cover my Styrofoam pieces in lines as a formal thing.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"It's a visual, formal thing — there's no deep philosophy behind it and I'm not commenting on photojournalism.

The New York Times - Arts

"There was no formal thing [because] there's no airs," she said.

Huffington Post

Feeling more sentimental about the whole formal thing, I called up my photographer buddy Heather and asked her one of life's biggest questions: Will you go to the formal with me?

Vice

But there is no formal thing I could do to approximate the tradition of Kumukanda – it's really something I began to miss in my late twenties and started to think about the things that are missing in my life that are tribal and traditional.

Vice

If you're in high school, chances are the most formal thing you're going to is the school dance.

WikiHow

Well, I have a theme for every painting, but I do use a lot of formal things that people invent for me.

Vice

"But after I learned how to make a competent painting, it was boring to just think about formal things without putting stuff that I was interested in in there.

Vice

"It is important for somebody who is depressed that at least some formal things are right," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a formal thing", consider whether a more specific term would better convey your intended meaning. For example, instead of saying "the dinner was a formal thing", you could say "the dinner was a black-tie affair".

Common error

Avoid using "a formal thing" in casual conversation. It can sound stilted or overly precise. In informal settings, opt for simpler phrasing such as "it was very formal" or "it was a formal event".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formal thing" functions as a noun phrase, where "formal" is an adjective modifying the noun "thing". It typically serves to describe an object, event, or concept that adheres to established conventions or standards of formality. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a formal thing" is grammatically correct but used infrequently. It functions as a noun phrase describing something adhering to conventions or rules. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's advisable to consider more specific alternatives for greater clarity. Usage is found across various contexts such as News & Media, Wiki, and Science. When choosing between alternatives such as "a structured event", "a ceremonial occasion", or "an official proceeding", consider nuances such as the degree of ritual or organization, depending on your particular needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a structured event

Focuses on the organized nature of the event.

an official proceeding

Emphasizes the authorized and legitimate nature.

a ceremonial occasion

Highlights the ritualistic and symbolic aspects.

a conventional practice

Underscores adherence to accepted norms.

a prescribed method

Highlights that something follows a set procedure.

a regulated activity

Focuses on the controlled and governed nature of it.

a procedural requirement

Emphasizes a necessary step in a process.

a codified system

Highlights the way it is organized and written down as law.

a standardised process

Refers to processes or procedures made uniform.

a routine procedure

Suggests something happens regularly in the same exact manner.

FAQs

What does "a formal thing" mean?

The phrase "a formal thing" refers to something that adheres to established conventions, rules, or procedures, often implying a degree of ceremony or seriousness.

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

You might say, "The wedding was "a formal affair", requiring guests to wear tuxedos and evening gowns."

What are some alternatives to "a formal thing"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a structured event", "a ceremonial occasion", or "an official proceeding".

Is it always appropriate to use "a formal thing" in writing?

While grammatically correct, "a formal thing" may sound somewhat vague or awkward in certain contexts. Consider whether a more precise and descriptive phrase would be more effective.