out of formality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "out of formality" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is being done as a matter of politeness or etiquette, rather than genuine desire or intention. Example: - "The couple exchanged pleasantries out of formality, but it was clear that there was tension between them." - "The CEO invited all employees to the company holiday party, but it was more out of formality than a genuine desire to celebrate with them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

She nicely came out of formality for a moment in a quasi-spoken "sembri," as if the character who delivers this piece -- a woman nobly denying herself -- had for a moment leaned through the music, living and breathing.

The New York Times - Arts

"The M.P.'s were a little surprised to see an American in civilian clothing, and I think out of formality and boredom they decided to do a background check, which involved C.I.D.," he wrote, referring to the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The influence of Josquin still hovers over both, and gracefully layered polyphony remains the reigning mode of expression, but the juxtaposition brought out the formality of Clemens's music and the comparatively freewheeling inventiveness of Vivanco's.

The New York Times - Arts

Start by finding out the formality of this event.

WikiHow

For a dash of formality, check out legalguru.com, purveyor of standard contracts; the site also provides legal advice for those who write in with specific questions.

Forbes

There's talk of an out-of-the-way place for cocktails but both people know that's just a formality.

Huffington Post

"Harlem" and the "Far East Suite" take some nasty bites out of concert formality, and they at least avoid the general sappiness of Mr. Henderson's other symphonic arrangements.

The New York Times - Arts

The lack of formality takes people out of the picture.

The New York Times

It was a day of formality, but that did not stop some from pulling out cameras to capture photographs of themselves with the Russian soldiers they had met.

The New York Times

This level of formality is often not the case and therefore regulation of who is in and who is out is not always feasible.

Health Research Policy and Systems

In her nightclub appearances over the past decade, Ms. Errico, who is 42 but looks 20 years younger, has tried, with mixed success, to branch out from the formality of theatrical belting into more intimate soft-rock territory.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "out of formality" to describe actions or statements made to fulfill a social expectation or requirement rather than from genuine intent. It adds nuance to your writing by indicating a distinction between outward behavior and inner feelings.

Common error

Avoid using "out of formality" when the action is genuinely heartfelt or spontaneous. This phrase is best suited to describe situations where there is a degree of insincerity or obligation, not authentic emotion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of formality" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner or reason for an action. It specifies that something is done or said because of social conventions or expectations, rather than genuine feeling or intent. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "out of formality" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to indicate that an action is performed as a matter of social convention or expectation rather than from genuine intent. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While relatively rare, it finds use in news, media, science and wiki articles. When employing this phrase, ensure that you are accurately conveying the nuance of insincerity or obligation. Consider alternatives like "as a matter of protocol" or "as a mere formality" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a mere formality

Indicates that the action is routine and lacks real substance or meaning.

pro forma

A Latin term denoting something done as a standard procedure or formality.

as a matter of protocol

Focuses on following established procedures or rules.

as a matter of etiquette

Emphasizes adherence to social norms and proper behavior.

for the sake of appearances

Highlights the intention to maintain a certain image or impression.

as a polite gesture

Underscores the act as a courteous or civil move.

to observe convention

Stresses compliance with traditional customs and practices.

out of obligation

Highlights doing something because one feels bound by duty or commitment.

in compliance with regulations

Emphasizes the necessity to adhere to rules and laws, focusing on the act of complying with the requirements

following due process

Highlights the procedure to adhere to legal process or established guidelines.

FAQs

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

You can use "out of formality" to describe actions that are done to meet a social expectation or standard practice, rather than from genuine feelings. For instance, "They exchanged pleasantries "out of formality", even though they disliked each other."

What does "out of formality" mean?

"Out of formality" means that something is done or said as a matter of custom, protocol, or social convention, rather than because it is genuinely felt or desired. It implies a degree of insincerity or obligation.

What can I say instead of "out of formality"?

Alternatives to "out of formality" include "as a matter of protocol", "as a mere formality", or "pro forma", depending on the specific context you wish to convey.

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

Yes, it is appropriate to use "out of formality" in formal writing. It can effectively convey that an action or statement is made to adhere to conventions or expectations rather than out of genuine intent. The term is neutral and fits into any register.