more of a formality

USAGE SUMMARY

"more of a formality" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is done as a tradition or to meet certain expectations even though it is not necessary. For example: "My grandmother insists on writing thank-you cards to everyone who gave her a birthday present, even though it's more of a formality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"But this is more of a formality than anything else".

The New York Times

That's fine: it can be canceled or turned into more of a formality.

The New York Times

Moving to New York, which Collins did three years ago, was more of a formality.

The New Yorker

But now that the board merely monitors the finances, the meetings have become more of a formality.

The New York Times

But the Iroquois team described that decision as more of a formality, with the biggest hurdle — coming to an agreement with the State Department — having been cleared.

The New York Times - Sports

While the commission routinely consults member countries on preliminary tariffs, in the past that has tended to be more of a formality, and opposition has been infrequent.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

As a result, Russian and Austrian attempts to contain the Ottoman threat became more and more a formality until the official dissolution of the Empire after World War I.

Wikipedia

Saturday's approval of troop movements was no more than a formality; both houses of parliament had already asked him to take "decisive action" in the state, with a majority demanding secession.

Independent

In modern practice, the haircutting ceremony formerly performed in a boy's third year and the initiation are usually performed on the same day, the homecoming ceremony at the end of the period of study being little more than a formality.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The citizenship of these new Americans is approved months in advance, making the ceremony and the oath of allegiance little more than a formality.

Vice

In 2008, Clinton was the overwhelming Democratic favorite, nationally and in Iowa, with an aura suggesting the actual tabulation of ballots was little more than a formality.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "more of a formality" to accurately convey that an action is performed out of habit or expectation rather than genuine necessity. It adds nuance to your writing and helps the reader understand the true importance (or lack thereof) of the action.

Common error

Avoid using "more of a formality" when the action actually holds significant weight or consequence. This can mislead your audience and undermine the importance of the situation you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more of a formality" functions as a qualifier, often acting as a predicate adjective. It describes a noun or action, indicating that it is performed primarily for custom, tradition, or compliance rather than genuine necessity or impact. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "more of a formality" is a phrase used to describe something done primarily because it is expected or required, rather than because it is truly necessary or impactful. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and appropriate for use in a variety of contexts. While frequently seen in News & Media, it can also appear in science, encyclopedias and informal conversations. When writing, use "more of a formality" to accurately convey the true significance (or lack thereof) of an action, but be careful not to use it when the action actually carries significant weight or consequence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

largely a formality

Emphasizes the minimal impact or significance of the action or event.

mostly a formality

Similar to "largely a formality" but implies a slightly greater degree of actual, though still limited, significance.

just a routine

Focuses on the habitual and predictable nature of the action.

simply a procedure

Highlights the structured and often bureaucratic nature of the process.

merely a convention

Suggests adherence to established social norms or customs.

a required step

Indicates an action that must be completed to fulfill a certain requirement.

a standard practice

Implies an action that is commonly done but may not be essential.

a nominal gesture

Suggests a symbolic action with little practical effect.

a pro forma action

Highlights the standardized nature of the task, often lacking real substance.

a symbolic act

Focuses on the representation of something rather than its concrete impact.

FAQs

How can I use "more of a formality" in a sentence?

You can use "more of a formality" to describe something that is done as a tradition or to meet certain expectations even though it is not strictly necessary. For example, "The final interview was "largely a formality" because the hiring manager had already made up his mind."

What's a good substitute for "more of a formality"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "just a routine", "simply a procedure", or "merely a convention". These phrases all suggest that something is done out of habit or obligation rather than genuine need.

Is it appropriate to use "more of a formality" in formal writing?

Yes, "more of a formality" can be used in formal writing, particularly when you need to convey that an action or step is not essential or holds little real significance. However, be mindful of your tone and ensure it aligns with the overall context.

What's the difference between "more of a formality" and "a necessary step"?

"More of a formality" implies that an action is not strictly essential and may be done out of habit or expectation. In contrast, "a necessary step" indicates that an action is required and essential to achieving a particular outcome.