formal

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'formal' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that involves etiquette, such as an event where everyone is expected to wear a formal outfit or speak in a specific way. For example, "The party was very formal, with everyone dressed in their finest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The European Union also made formal protests through the British and Irish consulates in Atlanta, focusing on Hill's disabilities.

The Guardian

The following Monday, 3 November, the principals re-assembled in Manchester's council chamber for the formal signing.

The Guardian

The Franco-German timetable also raises the prospect that the negotiations could take place outside a formal EU treaty revision.

The Guardian

The answer is not for "formal" education to begin earlier, but the evidence in favour of state funding for play-based, nursery settings from the age of two – followed by a gentle transition into school life – is clear.

The Guardian - Opinion

He should have added, for any voters distracted by the recent Lynton Crosby-led mind games, that a coalition of the Tories and UKIP – formal or not – will ignore Scotland, however strong the SNP, as it heads towards exit from the EU.

The Guardian

Clinton resigned from the group's board of directors almost immediately after the formal launch of her presidential campaign.

The Guardian

The problem is that if it is in primary legislation then only by formal Act of Parliament can it be changed.

The Guardian - Opinion

The governor, a former congressman, stopped short of announcing his formal his entry into the presidential race on the show – as he did in 1999, before an extremely short-lived first run for the White House.

The Guardian

At 5.00am, an hour before the formal declaration that the United Kingdom – and the prime minister's job – had been saved, Darling telephoned Cameron to warn him against using the moment of victory to demand English votes for English laws at Westminster.

The Guardian

The atmosphere is a little more old-fashioned and formal than Amsterdam's usually relaxed restaurant scene, making it the kind of place to take your parents.

The Guardian - Travel

The documents also show that Msipa talked to other members of Zanu-PF, who claimed the killings were the result of a formal, broad-based decision by the leadership.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events, use "formal" to set expectations for dress code and etiquette. For example: "The wedding is a "formal" affair, so dress accordingly."

Common error

While both "formal" and "official" suggest adherence to rules, "formal" often implies etiquette or ceremony, while "official" denotes authorization or legitimacy. Be sure to pick the word that truly fits the meaning of your sentence.

Linguistic Context

The word "formal" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate adherence to established customs, rules, or protocols. Ludwig examples confirm its usage in describing settings, clothing, and agreements, aligning with standard grammatical functions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "formal" is a versatile term indicating adherence to established customs, rules, or protocols. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts. Common usages include describing events requiring specific etiquette or agreements that are legally binding. To avoid errors, distinguish "formal" from "official", as the former emphasizes etiquette, while the latter denotes authorization. When writing, keep context in mind to determine the best usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

official

Indicates something authorized or sanctioned by an authority, often governmental or organizational.

regulated

Subject to rules or directives that control or govern conduct or practice.

ceremonial

Emphasizes adherence to established rites or customs, often in a public setting.

structured

Arranged and organized according to a plan; not random or chaotic.

prescribed

Specifically set down as a rule or course of action that must be followed.

conventional

Highlights conformity to accepted standards or practices.

methodical

Characterized by orderliness, system, and careful attention to detail.

stately

Suggests an air of dignity, grandeur, and impressiveness.

courtly

Implies refined and elegant manners, often associated with a royal court.

schematic

Relates to a structured plan or arrangement, emphasizing order and organization.

FAQs

How to use "formal" in a sentence?

You can use "formal" to describe events (a formal dinner), clothing (formal attire), or communication (a formal request). The key is that it implies a degree of structure and adherence to specific rules or customs.

What can I say instead of "formal"?

You can use alternatives like "ceremonial", "official", or "conventional" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "formal"?

"Formal" is appropriate when you want to emphasize adherence to established customs, rules, or protocols. For instance, a "formal" agreement is one that is legally binding, while a "formal" garden follows a structured design.

What is the difference between "formal" and "informal"?

"Formal" implies structure, rules, and often ceremony, whereas "informal" suggests a relaxed, casual approach. A "formal setting" requires adherence to etiquette, while an informal setting is more relaxed.