formally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formally" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something done in a formal manner or according to established rules or conventions. Example: "The invitation was sent out formally to all the guests, ensuring that everyone received the same level of respect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He launched a crackdown and the movement was formally dissolved in 2005.

The Guardian

In an attempt to shore up his political base, Chafee formally changed parties to become a Democrat in 2013.

The Guardian

DNI (digital network information) Data sent across computer networks, such as web page requests, emails, voice over IP. (Formally, any information sent as "packets").

The Guardian

He said in his letters the detention had not led him to being charged formally, "much less convicted of any crime".

The Guardian

Purnell said the BBC had been forced to cut back on the range of services it offers following the 2010 funding settlement, which froze the licence fee at £145.50 until 2017, including axing original daytime programmes on BBC2, and the decision, yet to be formally submitted to the BBC Trust, to axe the BBC3 TV channel.

The Guardian

Formally, Valencia still have a €230m debt and face a significant challenge to finish the new stadium, if they do ultimately do so, and sell the old one.

The Guardian - Sport

Algeria left the forerunner of the EEC when it became independent in 1962; the 56,000 residents of Greenland departed in 1985; the French Caribbean colony of Saint Barthelemy (which, with nearly 10,000 inhabitants, has as roughly the same population as Glastonbury, in Somerset) formally exited the EU in 2012.

The Guardian

Yet neither has formally declared a presidential bid, and neither has succeeded in pulling away from a second-tier bunch of candidates including senators Marco Rubio, Rand Paul and Ted Cruz.

The Guardian

And Caitlyn (Jenner, formally Bruce, if you really haven't been paying attention), who revealed her new identity on the cover of Vanity Fair this week, has achieved this feat in less than one week.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

However the papers do repeatedly show the British government formally saying it is for the Scottish executive to decide if Megrahi should be released on compassionate grounds, or under the prisoner transfer agreement signed by the British with the Libyans.

The Guardian

Highlighting its extreme sensitivity, the Afghan government did not formally announce the intelligence-sharing deal and denied that Pakistan will train and equip Afghan officers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "formally" to indicate that an action or statement is being made in accordance with established rules, procedures, or customs. This ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity in formal communications.

Common error

Avoid using "formally" when you mean "formerly". "Formally" refers to the manner in which something is done, while "formerly" refers to a past state or condition. For example, use "formerly known as" instead of "formally known as" when referring to a previous name.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "formally" modifies verbs to specify that an action is carried out in a formal, official, or ceremonial way. As Ludwig AI indicates, it denotes adherence to rules, procedures, or established customs. For example, "He was formally invited to the event."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverb "formally" is used to indicate that something is done in a formal, official, or ceremonial manner. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. It appears most frequently in news media and business contexts, denoting adherence to established rules and procedures. While often confused with "formerly", it's crucial to use "formally" to express that an action is carried out according to specific protocols. Remembering this will improve clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

officially

Indicates an action done with proper authorization or in accordance with regulations.

in an official capacity

Highlights the role or position from which an action is performed.

according to protocol

Emphasizes adherence to established procedures or customs.

in due form

Stresses that something is done correctly and completely, following all necessary steps.

by the book

Implies strict adherence to rules and regulations.

in a structured manner

Focuses on the organized and systematic approach taken.

in a conventional way

Suggests following established norms and practices.

ceremoniously

Indicates that something is done with great ceremony and pomp.

with all due ceremony

Emphasizes the importance and solemnity of an event.

perfunctorily

Suggests something done as a matter of routine or duty, sometimes lacking genuine interest.

FAQs

How can I use "formally" in a sentence?

You can use "formally" to indicate that something is done in a formal or official manner. For example, "The agreement was "formally signed" by both parties" or "The company was "formally established" in 1995".

What words can I use instead of "formally"?

Alternatives to "formally" include "officially", "ceremonially", or "in due form" depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "formally" and "formerly"?

"Formally" refers to the manner in which something is done (e.g., "formally invited"), whereas "formerly" indicates something's previous state or condition (e.g., "formerly known as").

Is it correct to say "formally apologize"?

Yes, it is correct to say "formally apologize". It means to offer an apology in a formal or official manner, often in a public setting or through an official channel.