as formality

USAGE SUMMARY

'as formality' is a correct, usable phrase in written English.
You may use it to refer to an action that is performed as a show of politeness or respect, even if it is not necessarily required. For example, “I shake hands with everyone I meet as formality.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

As formality ebbs, luxury flows.

The New York Times

Include topics such as formality, greetings and signatures, tone, etc. Alternately, develop a guide to e-mail acronyms and shorthand.

The New York Times

In this upbeat study of development in Africa, Olopade identifies the great obstacle as "formality bias" — the… All Joy and No Fun, by Jennifer Senior (Ecco).

The New Yorker

In this upbeat study of development in Africa, Olopade identifies the great obstacle as "formality bias" — the tendency of outsiders to recognize solutions to African problems only when they come from governments and other formal organizations.

The New Yorker

Forecast by so many as formality, this series is as hot as Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson were at each other by the end of a long, draining night.

The New York Times - Sports

In this upbeat study of development in Africa, Olopade identifies the great obstacle as "formality bias" — the… The animated series "Adventure Time," now entering its sixth season on Cartoon Network, is the kind of cult phenomenon that's hard to describe without sounding… Style, when it works, can be a startling and pleasurable thing.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Don't let those interactions end as formalities — make personal follow-ups with people you met face to face.

Forbes

"But in the past such events were held as formalities, for the sake of appearances.

Unicef

Sources close to Ticketus described the apparent move to terminate the contract as "a formality" as it was already being treated as a creditor in a CVA, which implied the ticket deal would no longer stand.

BBC

Mr. Martínez Alequin, who considers himself a champion for the poor and for black and Latino residents, raised his hand almost as a formality as the mayor took questions afterward.

The New York Times

His lawyer, Joshua D. Martin, said he agreed to substitute Mr. Rosales's name for "John Doe" in the indictment as "a formality," and not as an admission of guilt.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as formality", ensure the context clearly indicates the action is being performed primarily to satisfy protocol or custom rather than for its intrinsic value or impact. This adds nuance and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "as formality" when the action genuinely serves a practical purpose, even if it also fulfills a formal requirement. This can misrepresent the situation and undermine the significance of the action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as formality" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. The Ludwig examples show it clarifies that an action is carried out mainly to fulfill a procedural or conventional requirement.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as formality" is a phrase used to indicate that an action is performed primarily to comply with a rule, custom, or established procedure, often implying a lack of substantive significance. Ludwig AI classifies the phrase as correct and usable, although its frequency is rare. Predominantly found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, it functions as an adverbial phrase to modify verbs or clauses. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly conveys that the action is merely a matter of protocol rather than a genuine necessity. Alternatives like "as a mere formality" or "pro forma" can also be considered depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a mere formality

Emphasizes the perfunctory nature of the action, highlighting its lack of real significance.

as a matter of form

Focuses on adherence to established procedures, suggesting the action is driven by protocol.

pro forma

Highlights the action is done to satisfy minimum requirements, often implying a lack of genuine effort.

as a procedural step

Underscores that the action is part of a defined process, irrespective of its actual effect.

for the sake of appearances

Focuses on the performative aspect, indicating the action is primarily for public perception.

to satisfy regulations

Highlights compliance as the primary motivation, indicating the action is driven by external requirements.

as a symbolic gesture

Emphasizes that the action is intended as a representation of something, not necessarily a substantive action in itself.

to fulfill an obligation

Highlights that the action is carried out because of a duty or commitment, regardless of its practical value.

as a customary practice

Focuses on the action being a standard or traditional way of doing things, even if its usefulness is questionable.

as a conventional measure

Highlights adherence to established norms, suggesting the action is a standard approach, not necessarily the most effective.

FAQs

How can I use "as formality" in a sentence?

You can use "as formality" to describe an action done to satisfy protocol or custom. For example, "He underwent the medical examination "as formality", even though he felt perfectly healthy."

What does "as formality" mean?

"As formality" implies that something is done primarily to adhere to rules, customs, or appearances, rather than for its intrinsic necessity or impact. It suggests the action is a perfunctory step.

Are there alternatives to using "as formality"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "as a matter of form", "pro forma", or "as a procedural step" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "as formality"?

It is appropriate when the action is primarily symbolic or ceremonial, and its main purpose is to comply with established protocols or meet minimal requirements. Avoid using it when the action has a significant or essential purpose.