is simply a formality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is simply a formality" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a particular action or procedure is routine and does not require serious consideration or effort. Example: "The interview is simply a formality; we have already decided to hire you based on your impressive resume."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

This is the least troubling breach the trip was not trade-related and David Cameron, trade-related andr, has suggesteDavid Cameronferral is simply a formalithe

The Economist

While it is simply a formality, it still stings the Knicks to consider that they will end their season before the playoffs start for the first time since the 1986-87 season.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The World Series will be simply a formality.

The New York Times - Sports

But Mr. Obama's decision to invest time here — rather than Puerto Rico or Montana and South Dakota, where the final primaries take place June 3 — suggested that the decision not to declare victory was simply a formality.

The New York Times

"The signing of my new contract was simply a formality of dotting the i's and crossing the t's.

BBC

It's simply a formality that Bill Belichick and company will march onto an eighth consecutive AFC East title, and 14th in 15 seasons. .

Huffington Post

The deal still has to be approved by the Canadian government, who will "determine whether it's a net benefit to the country," but that's simply a formality before Burger King becomes yet another Canadian monarch who lives in another country and doesn't contribute anything.

Vice

Perhaps it is only a formality.

The New York Times

His flippant politeness is merely a formality.

Vice

The volunteering is just a formality.

Vice

(He died six years later, but that was only a formality).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is simply a formality" to clearly convey that an action or step is routine and doesn't require significant effort or attention. This can help set expectations appropriately.

Common error

Avoid using "is simply a formality" excessively, as it can diminish the perceived importance of necessary processes or steps, even if they seem trivial. Consider the context and whether emphasizing the routine nature is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is simply a formality" functions as a qualifier, indicating that something is a routine procedure or step. Ludwig AI's analysis of various sources confirms its use in contexts where actions are perceived as perfunctory.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is simply a formality" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that serves to downplay the significance of a particular action or step. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's most frequently found in news and media contexts. While useful for setting expectations, it's important to consider the context and audience to avoid undermining the perceived importance of necessary processes. Alternatives like "is merely a formality" or "is just a formality" offer subtle variations in tone. Use the phrase judiciously to maintain clarity and respect for the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is merely a formality

Replaces "simply" with "merely", indicating a slight emphasis on the unimportance of the action.

is just a formality

Substitutes "simply" with "just", offering a more casual tone.

is only a formality

Replaces "simply" with "only", suggesting that it is nothing more than a formality.

is a mere formality

Uses "mere" to emphasize the insignificance of the formality.

is a pure formality

Emphasizes the action as being purely for the sake of fulfilling a requirement.

is largely a formality

Adds "largely" to indicate that while it's mostly a formality, there might be some substance to it.

is considered a formality

Highlights that it's viewed as a formality by others.

is seen as a formality

Similar to "is considered a formality", but focuses on perception.

is a pro forma matter

Replaces "formality" with the more technical term "pro forma matter".

is a procedural requirement

Focuses on the procedural aspect, highlighting it as a requirement.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to say something "is simply a formality"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey that a procedure or action is routine and requires minimal effort or consideration. Be mindful of the context to avoid undermining the importance of necessary steps.

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

You can use alternatives such as "is merely a formality", "is just a formality", or "is only a formality" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "is simply a formality" differ from "is an important requirement"?

"Is simply a formality" suggests a routine action with minimal impact, while "is an important requirement" emphasizes the necessity and significance of a particular step or process. The two phrases have nearly opposite meanings.

Can "is simply a formality" be used in all contexts?

While generally acceptable, "is simply a formality" might not be suitable for situations where the action holds significant legal, ethical, or personal implications. Always consider the context and audience when using this phrase.