formal mood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formal mood" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tone or atmosphere that is serious, respectful, or adheres to established conventions, often in writing or speech. Example: "The speaker maintained a formal mood throughout the presentation, ensuring that the audience understood the importance of the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

More formal mood?

The New York Times - Food

Mr. Jacobs, in a formal mood, was wearing a three-piece suit but had removed the jacket.

The New York Times

It may be that anxiety/stress and depression are not merely co-occurring emotional states (or comorbid disorders) but that there is a dynamic, iterative process that occurs within an individual that sometimes produces a predominantly anxious presentation (i.e. meeting criteria for an anxiety disorder) and at other times produces symptoms consistent with a formal mood episode.

International Journal of Bipolar Disorders

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

There is explicit reflection on the contrast between the formal schemata or moods and the matter (hyle) of syllogismoi in Alexander of Aphrodisias (53.28ff., quoted by Bocheński 1956 , §24.06, and there has been ever since.

SEP

6 P.M. RECONNECTING AND IT FEELS SO GOOD Your Parents' Living Room now has a slightly formal feel, but the mood is still low-key, making it a great place to reconnect with friends.

The New Yorker

In the ERP sample: No formal assessment of induced mood was conducted to leave the participants naïve with regard to the emotion induction manipulation.

Plosone

We do not perform regular formal ratings of the mood of our patients.

BMC Psychiatry

Her images may seem whimsically simple-minded, but as in the poetry of Emily Dickinson, formal ingenuity and heartfelt moods ranging from ecstasy to grief give the work a depth that belies the seemingly naïve surface.

The New York Times - Arts

Some productions are staged without formal sets, yet the changing mood and setting can be suggested by controlled illumination.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But for all their differences of mood, style and formal method, Mr. Brakhage's films were the expression of a singular and uncompromising aesthetic program, which he articulated in numerous lectures, interviews and essays.

The New York Times - Arts

AS THE world's first permanent war-crimes court celebrates its fifth birthday this week, the mood is upbeat: formal investigations are under way in four countries; it has issued eight arrest warrants; it is about to gain its 105th member, Japan; its first trial begins in the autumn, and America, once hostile, now sounds decidedly more friendly.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for a "formal mood" in writing, maintain consistent language and avoid colloquialisms to reinforce seriousness and respect.

Common error

Avoid abruptly switching between formal and informal language, as this can undermine the "formal mood" you're trying to create. Choose a level of formality and stick to it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formal mood" functions primarily as a descriptor, often used to characterize the atmosphere, tone, or general feeling of a situation, environment, or piece of communication. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in describing various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "formal mood" is used to describe a serious, respectful, and conventional tone. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Though not very common, it appears mostly in News & Media and Scientific contexts. When aiming for a "formal mood", maintain consistent language and avoid colloquialisms. Alternative phrases, such as "solemn atmosphere" or "serious tone", can provide similar connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solemn atmosphere

Emphasizes the seriousness and gravity of the atmosphere.

serious tone

Focuses on the gravity and lack of levity in the way something is expressed.

ceremonial feeling

Highlights the ritualistic or traditional nature of the feeling.

decorous attitude

Suggests an attitude characterized by politeness and good taste.

stately ambiance

Implies a grand and dignified environment.

austere disposition

Conveys a stern and serious demeanor.

dignified air

Highlights the composed and respectable nature of the atmosphere.

ritualistic sentiment

Emphasizes the adherence to established customs or procedures in the sentiment.

buttoned-up atmosphere

Indicates a restrictive or overly formal environment.

studied demeanor

Implies a carefully cultivated and deliberate manner.

FAQs

How can I create a "formal mood" in my writing?

To establish a "formal mood", use precise language, avoid contractions, and maintain an objective tone. Consider using a more structured sentence construction and minimizing personal anecdotes.

What is the difference between a "formal mood" and a professional tone?

While both convey seriousness, a "formal mood" often implies adherence to strict conventions and can feel more distant. A professional tone, on the other hand, emphasizes competence and respect, but may allow for some degree of personal expression. Consider alternatives to create "professional tone".

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

A "formal mood" is suitable in contexts such as academic papers, legal documents, official reports, and formal speeches where precision and objectivity are crucial.

What are some words to avoid when trying to create a "formal mood"?

Avoid slang, colloquialisms, and overly casual language. Instead, opt for precise, technical, or sophisticated vocabulary. For example, instead of "okay", use "acceptable" or "satisfactory".