a formula of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a formula of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific mathematical or scientific expression, or a method for achieving a particular result. Example: "The chemist presented a formula of the compound that would be used in the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The triple talaq is a formula of repudiation," she writes.

The New York Times

The triple talaq is a formula of repudiation.

The New York Times

In February, the arbitration panel proposed a formula of 0.0014 cent per song, per listener.

The New York Times

We would chop up a formula of catfood, fish and vitamins and tube it into them.

The Guardian

Instead, the show at the Forum stuck to a formula of nearly nonstop classic hits.

The New York Times - Arts

The casting is done by Meller herself, to a formula of considered spontaneity.

The Guardian - Music

In your article, you describe a formula of sorts for morning news shows.

The New Yorker

And "Ocean's 13" perpetuated a formula of stagnant antihero plus interchangeable crimes, locations and dames.

The New York Times

What makes a city car is ultimately not a formula of length or volume but something like attitude.

The New York Times

In France, Canal Plus, a subscription-based channel, wooed its audience with a formula of football and films.

The Economist

A formula of union was approved by both delegations, but later it was rejected by rank-and-file Orthodox Christians.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a formula of" to describe a structured set of components, especially in scientific or technical contexts where precision is important.

Common error

Avoid using "a formula of" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler phrases like "a combination of" or "a mix of" for better clarity and tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a formula of" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun by specifying its composition or underlying structure. Ludwig examples show it describing elements, ingredients, or methods.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a formula of" is a versatile phrase used to express the composition or underlying structure of something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts. For casual writing, consider alternative phrases such as "a combination of". Use "a formula of" when aiming for precision, but be mindful of its formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a combination of

Focuses on blending different elements to create something new.

a composition of

Emphasizes the elements that constitute a whole, similar to ingredients in a recipe.

a blend of

Similar to "a combination of" but suggests a smoother, more integrated mix.

a method for

Highlights a specific approach to achieve a certain outcome or result.

a set of

Denotes a collection of items or elements used together.

a system of

Implies a complex and interconnected arrangement of components working together.

a way of

Indicates a particular manner or style of doing something.

a recipe for

Specifically refers to a set of instructions for preparing a dish or other mixture.

a pattern of

Suggests a recurring arrangement or sequence of elements.

a means of

Highlights the tools or resources employed to achieve a particular goal.

FAQs

How can I use "a formula of" in a sentence?

The phrase "a formula of" is used to describe a specific combination of elements or a method. For example, "The success of the project relied on "a formula of" careful planning and hard work."

What's a good alternative to "a formula of" in simpler terms?

If you want to simplify your language, consider using phrases like "a combination of", "a method for", or "a recipe for" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "a formula of" and "a form of"?

"A formula of" refers to a specific composition or method, while "a form of" indicates a type or variety. They are not interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use "a formula of" in writing?

Use "a formula of" when describing a precise combination of ingredients or steps, particularly in scientific, technical, or mathematical contexts. For example, when you are talking about ingredients or steps of a given action.