is probably a formality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is probably a formality" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that something is likely a routine procedure or requirement that may not hold significant importance. Example: "While we need to submit the application, it is probably a formality since we have already met all the necessary criteria."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The final decision rests with the Transport for London Board on 4 February - which is probably a formality - so you could see construction work begin on the East West cycle superhighway in April.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But the biggest factor in the return to workplace formality is probably the economic downturn, which has driven many people back to ties and pantsuits as armor against job insecurity.

The New York Times

If you're interested in the teachings of Christ, in cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus, but less interested in tradition and formality, you're probably interested in a protestant branch of the Church.

WikiHow

The treaty's ratification is expected to be a formality.

Independent

But the conversation is believed to be a formality.

The New York Times - Sports

Funding is considered to be a formality.

BBC

It sounds like a bullshit formality, but it was probably somewhat effective because it forced prisons to track any sexual assault activity.

Vice

Last week, league and Wizards officials acknowledged that Jordan was planning to return to the game and that the official transaction would probably be merely a formality.

The New York Times - Sports

Beyond that, a victory would confirm England's qualification in Euro 2016, with three games to spare, and can probably be considered a formality given that San Marino's goal-less draw with Estonia in November was the first time in 60 attempts they have managed not to lose a Uefa qualifying match.

The Guardian - Sport

Re-election this year was supposed to be a formality.

The Economist

That is usually a formality.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "probably" with synonyms like "likely" or "almost certainly" to fine-tune the degree of certainty you express.

Common error

Avoid using "is probably a formality" when there's a chance the formality could significantly alter the outcome. Overstating certainty can lead to misinterpretations or false expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is probably a formality" functions as a qualifier, expressing an assessment of likelihood regarding a particular action or event. It indicates that the speaker or writer believes the event will occur as a matter of routine, with minimal impact or alteration to the outcome. The examples from Ludwig show usage in news articles and general explanations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is probably a formality" is used to suggest that an action or event is likely a routine procedure with little real impact. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it is grammatically correct and appears in various contexts, predominantly in News & Media. While its frequency is uncommon, it serves to convey a sense of predictability and reassurance. When using the phrase, ensure that the situation truly reflects a low-impact routine to avoid misleading your audience. Alternatives like "is likely just a formality" or "is expected to be a formality" can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is most likely a formality

Adds emphasis with "most likely", suggesting a higher degree of certainty.

is likely just a formality

Replaces "probably" with "likely just", maintaining similar certainty.

is expected to be a formality

Focuses on expectation rather than probability, suggesting anticipation of a routine process.

is almost certainly a formality

Conveys a very high degree of confidence in the routine nature of something.

is practically a formality

Implies the action is so routine it's essentially already completed.

is considered a mere formality

Emphasizes the insignificance or trivial nature of the formality.

is seen as a formality

Highlights perception rather than inherent probability, suggesting others view it as routine.

is largely a formality

Indicates that the action is mostly a formality, with minimal practical impact.

is essentially a formality

Highlights that in all the most important aspects, it's a formality.

is treated as a formality

Focuses on the action of treating something as a formality rather than its inherent nature.

FAQs

What does "is probably a formality" mean?

The phrase "is probably a formality" suggests that something is likely a routine procedure or requirement that may not hold significant importance. It implies that the outcome is predetermined or highly likely.

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

You can use "is probably a formality" to describe a step or process that is expected to be routine. For example, "While we need to submit the application, it "is probably a formality" since we have already met all the necessary criteria."

What can I say instead of "is probably a formality"?

You can use alternatives like "is likely just a formality", "is expected to be a formality", or "is considered a mere formality" depending on the context.

When should I avoid using the phrase "is probably a formality"?

Avoid using "is probably a formality" when the action in question carries significant weight or could substantially impact the result. Overusing this phrase can undermine its intended meaning and lead to misunderstandings.