on a formal level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a formal level" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase conveys the idea that something is being discussed in a formal or official way. For example, "We'll need to discuss this issue on a formal level in order to reach a resolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"Arabesque," which is one of Mr. Taylor's most intriguing pieces on a formal level, can be appreciated at face value.

The New York Times - Arts

On a formal level, Mr. Martins is concerned with variations on the ballet adagio.

The New York Times - Arts

On a formal level, the film has its share of fireworks, too.

Independent

On a formal level, both the cornfield and the stadium offer a variety of approaches for the photographer.

The New York Times

"On a formal level, that's what my work came from: taking images and putting words across them.

The New York Times - Style

On a formal level, the choreography explores different styles of waltzing, especially running steps that change in rhythm and pace.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

"If you've spent a long time developing a skill and techniques, and now some 14 year-old upstart can get exactly the same result, you might feel a bit miffed I suppose, but that has happened forever," says Eno. "It happened with synthesizers, on quite a formal level when string synthesizers first existed.

The Guardian - Music

It's through the machinations of the marquis that the two men travel to America together 20 years later as master and servant, though their relationship is never that straightforward, on either a personal or a formal level.

The Guardian - Books

Finally, on a more formal level, we note that Bohr's derivation does not rely on the commutation relations (1) and (5), but on Fourier analysis.

SEP

But the purpose is not to be "natural" in the classic (or "Survivor" era) sense; it is to question the way humans interact on a fundamentally formal level -- he actually makes reality look weird.

The New York Times

Prior to Star Alliance, Northwest Airlines and KLM were operating together as the forerunners of the modern airline alliance system since 1993, although there had been even earlier pairings and groupings of airlines for decades on a less formal level.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a formal level", ensure the context clearly indicates a contrast with informal or personal aspects of the situation. This clarifies the specific scope of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "on a formal level" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound stilted and unnatural. Opt for simpler alternatives when discussing everyday matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a formal level" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause, indicating the perspective or manner in which something is being considered or addressed. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on a formal level" is a prepositional phrase used to specify that something is being considered or addressed within a structured, official context. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various professional settings, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. To avoid sounding stilted, it's best to reserve this phrase for situations where contrasting formal and informal aspects is necessary. Alternatives such as "in an official capacity" or "from a structural standpoint" can provide similar meaning, depending on the intended nuance. By keeping these points in mind, you can effectively use "on a formal level" to add precision and clarity to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a formal capacity

Emphasizes the official role or position from which something is done.

from a structural standpoint

Highlights the framework or organizational perspective.

in an official manner

Focuses on the authorized and recognized way of doing something.

according to protocol

Stresses adherence to established rules and procedures.

in a structured way

Emphasizes the presence of a clear and organized approach.

officially speaking

Directly indicates that the statement is made from an authoritative standpoint.

from a technical perspective

Highlights a specific technical viewpoint or analysis.

in accordance with regulations

Stresses compliance with established rules and laws.

following established procedures

Highlights compliance with standard, pre-defined methods.

by the book

Implies strict adherence to rules and guidelines.

FAQs

How can I use "on a formal level" in a sentence?

Use "on a formal level" to indicate that something is being discussed or considered in an official or structured manner. For example, "We need to address these concerns "on a formal level" during the next board meeting."

What are some alternatives to "on a formal level"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in an official capacity", "from a structural standpoint", or "in an official manner" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "on a formal level" in informal settings?

While grammatically correct, using "on a formal level" in informal settings can sound overly stilted. Consider using simpler alternatives like "officially" or "structurally" in casual conversations.

What's the difference between "on a formal level" and "on a personal level"?

"On a formal level" refers to official or structured aspects, while "on a personal level" refers to individual feelings, experiences, or relationships. The former is about systems and structures, the latter about individual connections.