is more formal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is more formal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing the level of formality between two or more expressions, styles, or contexts. Example: "The phrase 'I would like to request' is more formal than 'I want'."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

This remark points out to another dimension of network composition and growth that whether the growth is more formal or informal in nature, though the nature of the network gets more formalized and could be another area of exploration.

Journal of Global Entrepreneurship Research

(Dress is more formal than at a typical salsa event).

The New York Times - Arts

This app is more formal, although it too revolves around an artfully designed user interface.

The New York Times - Tech

"A bow tie is more formal, right down to the knot," Mr. Olch pointed out.

The New York Times

"Such as" is more formal than "like", but both are legitimate.

The Guardian - Books

Downstairs is barlike, upstairs is more formal, but the menu is the same.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

"You" was more formal, "thou" more familiar.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was more formal in those days".

The New York Times - Arts

Senior was more formal in his religious beliefs.

The New Yorker

A lot of my friends are rowdy," she said, but Ms. Stephens was more formal.

The New York Times

The body language was more formal and remote, no matey jokes like 2010.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing different styles or approaches, ensure that using "is more formal" accurately reflects a difference in formality rather than other qualities like complexity or detail.

Common error

Avoid exclusively using "is more formal" when other comparative adjectives like 'is more precise' or 'is more elaborate' would better describe the nuances of the distinction you're making.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is more formal" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It is used to describe a higher degree of formality in relation to something else. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, it frequently compares different styles, settings, or vocabulary choices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

22%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is more formal" serves as a comparative adjective phrase to indicate a higher degree of formality between two things. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common across diverse sources, including news media, science, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the difference in formality and not some other quality. Common alternatives include "is more official" or "is more structured", depending on the context. By understanding its usage and potential alternatives, you can ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is more proper

Emphasizes adherence to social norms and etiquette, similar to 'is more formal' but with a stronger focus on correctness.

is more official

Indicates adherence to rules and regulations, differing from 'is more formal' which applies to broader contexts of style and behavior.

is more conventional

Emphasizes adherence to established customs and norms, differing from 'is more formal' by focusing on tradition.

is more structured

Highlights the presence of a defined framework or system, unlike 'is more formal' which relates to etiquette and style.

is more ceremonious

Implies a greater emphasis on ritual and ceremony, whereas 'is more formal' can be less ritualistic.

is more dignified

Implies a sense of stateliness and respect, shifting the focus from formality to the impression conveyed.

is more decorous

Focuses on proper behavior and good taste, shifting the emphasis from mere formality to appropriateness.

is more regulated

Highlights adherence to rules and laws, different from formality as a matter of social convention.

is more stilted

Suggests an unnatural or stiff formality, introducing a potentially negative connotation that 'is more formal' lacks.

is more elegant

Conveys sophistication and refinement, adding an aesthetic dimension not necessarily present in 'is more formal'.

FAQs

How can I use "is more formal" in a sentence?

Use "is more formal" to compare the level of formality between two things. For example, "A business letter "is more formal" than a text message."

What's the difference between "is more formal" and "is more professional"?

"Is more formal" refers to adherence to established conventions and etiquette, whereas "is more professional" relates to behaviors and standards expected in a workplace setting. While there can be overlap, they aren't always interchangeable.

Which is correct, "is more formal" or "is more formalised"?

Both "is more formal" and "is more formalised" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Is more formal" implies a higher degree of adherence to conventions, while "is more formalised" suggests that something has been made more formal through a specific process or structure.

What are some alternatives to "is more formal"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "is more formal" could include "is more official", "is more ceremonial", or "is more structured".