it is not formally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is not formally" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that lacks formal recognition, structure, or adherence to established rules. Example: "While the proposal has merit, it is not formally approved by the board yet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The sprawling growth of its spying program is commensurate with the size of its military and the spread of its incursions into countries like Yemen, Somalia and Pakistan where it is not formally at war.

The Guardian - Opinion

Students may write a M.S. thesis, but it is not formally recognized by the University.

Stanford University

Although the jury works closely with the prosecutor, it is not formally under his control.

Britannica

Though it is not formally classed as a state funeral, many of the public see it as such.

Independent

But, officially, Indonesia calls itself a "non-claimant" country and says it is not formally in dispute with Beijing.

The Guardian - Opinion

At present it is not formally a member of the new "dwarf planet" class, although it may join that class when better observations confirm its size.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Even though it isn't formally published, the technique has been cited in 15 peer-reviewed papers.

Science Magazine

"Even if it isn't formally considered in this Congress, it can provide a vehicle for organizing and taking this issue into the presidential election," he explained.

Vice

It's not formally a web standard.

The Guardian - Tech

(It's not formally recognized as a psychiatric disorder).

The New Yorker

It was not formally announced, but slipped out in indicative local government funding figures.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is not formally" when clarifying that something lacks official recognition or status, even if it exists or is implied in some way.

Common error

Avoid using "it is not formally" when you mean something simply does not exist or happen at all. The phrase implies a potential discrepancy between theory and practice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not formally" primarily functions as a qualifier, indicating that something lacks official recognition, approval, or structure. Ludwig AI shows that it is often used to clarify a distinction between informal and official status.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is not formally" serves to qualify information by denoting a lack of official standing, recognition, or structure. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used, as evidenced by the numerous examples from authoritative sources. While versatile, it leans towards a neutral to formal register, often appearing in contexts where clarity and precision are paramount. When using this phrase, ensure it aptly reflects the intended distinction between what is officially sanctioned and what is merely implied or practiced in an unofficial capacity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it isn't officially

Uses "officially" instead of "formally", implying a lack of official endorsement.

it's not officially

Uses a contraction for "it is", creating a slightly less formal tone, while maintaining the core meaning.

it is not officially

Replaces "formally" with "officially", indicating a lack of official status or approval.

it is not officially recognized

Adds "recognized" for clarity on recognition

it is not officially sanctioned

Substitutes "formally" with "officially", while using "sanctioned" to imply a lack of authorization or approval.

it is not expressly

Expresses a lack of explicit direction.

it is not explicitly

Highlights that something is not stated clearly or in detail.

it doesn't formally

This version uses "doesn't" to keep it in line with more conversational and less stiff scenarios. It carries the same fundamental significance.

it's technically not

Emphasizes the technical or precise definition rather than formal acknowledgement.

it is not legally

This variant focuses specifically on legal status, meaning it lacks legal standing or authorization.

FAQs

How can I use "it is not formally" in a sentence?

Use "it is not formally" to indicate that something lacks official recognition or structure, even if it exists or is implied. For example: "Although the team unofficially collaborates, "it is not formally" part of the department."

What can I say instead of "it is not formally"?

You can use alternatives like "it is not officially", "it is not expressly", or "it is not explicitly" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "it is not formally" or "it isn't formally"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct. "It isn't formally" is a contraction of "it is not formally" and is generally considered less formal.

What's the difference between "it is not formally" and "it is not legally"?

"It is not formally" indicates a lack of official recognition or structure, while "it is not legally" specifies a lack of legal standing or authorization. The choice depends on whether you're referring to official processes or legal aspects.