is a mere formality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'is a mere formality' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe something that is not considered important or necessary, but still has to be done in order to complete a process. For example: "Filling out the paperwork for the loan is a mere formality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

This step is a mere formality.

The Washington Post

"The election is a mere formality".

The New York Times

In China, it is a mere formality ordered from the top.

The New York Times

BARACK OBAMA is doing everything he can to make it look as if the election is a mere formality, and adoring media types are keen to play along.

The Economist

Or perhaps, given that Mr Bush's successor will still be getting his team in place, a decision may be delayed for much longer.On one reading of events, this expansion of NATO is a mere formality.

The Economist

The 27 member states must still give formal approval to the plan, though officials at the Parliament say that is a mere formality because members had voted in favor of a previously agreed compromise.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Unsurprisingly, James Bopp Jr., the lawyer who represented Citizens United and who now represents the three non-profit corporations challenging the Montana law, asked the justices in Washington for a stay while he could prepare a formal appeal, which he suggested would be a mere formality.

The New York Times

The second round was a mere formality.

The Guardian - Sport

Confirmation of any Trump nominee should be a mere formality.

The New Yorker

The court date was a mere formality — a request for a postponement.

The New Yorker

It took two rounds of votes, in the end, but it was a mere formality.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is a mere formality" when you want to downplay the significance of a step or process, indicating it's required but doesn't carry substantial weight or influence. For instance, "The final inspection before closing on the house is a mere formality."

Common error

Avoid using "is a mere formality" when the step or process actually has significant consequences. Overusing the phrase can undermine your credibility if the audience perceives the situation differently.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a mere formality" functions as a predicative expression, typically used to describe a task, process, or requirement. It indicates that the subject is something that must be done, but lacks substantial significance or impact. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is a mere formality" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe something required but lacking importance. Ludwig AI's analysis, supported by numerous real-world examples, highlights its prevalence in news, business, and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, ensure that the situation genuinely aligns with its implication of insignificance to avoid miscommunication. Alternatives such as "is just a formality" or "is simply a formality" can offer slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is just a formality

Replaces 'mere' with 'just', slightly reducing emphasis on insignificance.

is simply a formality

Replaces 'mere' with 'simply', conveying ease and lack of importance.

is a pro forma step

Uses the term 'pro forma', indicating adherence to established procedure.

is a standard procedure

Focuses on the routine aspect, rather than the insignificance.

is a rubber stamp

Emphasizes automatic approval without careful consideration.

is just a matter of course

Highlights the routine and expected nature of the action.

is a perfunctory action

Implies the action is carried out with minimal effort or enthusiasm.

is a symbolic gesture

Indicates the action has significance in representation only.

is an empty ritual

Suggests the action is devoid of real meaning or purpose.

is a matter of compliance

Stresses adherence to regulations rather than intrinsic value.

FAQs

How can I use "is a mere formality" in a sentence?

You can use "is a mere formality" to describe a required step that lacks real impact or importance. For example: "Submitting the application "is a mere formality", as the decision has already been made."

What are some alternatives to "is a mere formality"?

Consider using alternatives like "is just a formality", "is simply a formality", or "is a pro forma step" depending on the context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "is a mere formality"?

It's appropriate when the step or process is technically required but doesn't significantly influence the outcome or decision. Be cautious not to use it if the process holds genuine importance or could lead to unexpected results.

Is there a risk of misusing the phrase "is a mere formality"?

Yes, misusing it can diminish the importance of a task or insult someone's work. If the task has potential impact or requires dedication, avoid calling it ""is a mere formality"".