usually formal

USAGE SUMMARY

"usually formal" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is typically done in a more formal or official way. For example: Business meetings are usually formal events, so remember to dress appropriately.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

To his usually formal paper, which was thrilled by her fierce party conference speech this month, she is "Theresa".

The Guardian

(For Yiadom-Boakye, the problem of a painting, she has said, begins with "a color, a composition, a gesture, a particular direction of the light. My starting points are usually formal ones").

The New Yorker

Although a few free verse poets have excelled at light verse outside the formal verse tradition, light verse in English is usually formal.

Wikipedia

While there are usually formal governance processes - mainly based on reporting and audit - some participants alluded to the alternative use of informal approaches.

BMC Health Services Research

However, there is a great difference between describing one new species and producing a taxonomic revision for a group of species, the former being a task often undertaken by amateurs whereas the latter demands greater perspective and most usually formal training and long-term employment.

AoB PLANTS

Weddings are usually formal or informal.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Catholic mass is usually a formal to semi-formal event.

WikiHow

These events are usually semi-formal to formal.

WikiHow

The notice issued Wednesday orders Mr. Ashraf, a former minister for water and power, to explain why he should not be charged with contempt — a formality that usually precedes formal charges.

The New York Times

Conducting integrity tests usually requires formal authorization.

The New York Times

Unlike the usually more formal websites, netiquette demands that social media accounts speak in a softer, more approachable tone.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events or situations, use "usually formal" to indicate that the protocol or setting is generally formal, but there can be exceptions. This acknowledges potential variations and avoids rigid characterizations.

Common error

Avoid using "usually formal" when describing situations that are always formal, as this can introduce unnecessary ambiguity. If a situation is invariably formal, use "always formal" or simply "formal" to maintain clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "usually formal" functions as an adverbial modifier describing the degree or extent of formality. It qualifies a noun or situation, indicating that formality is the typical but not absolute condition. Ludwig AI confirms the correct usage of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "usually formal" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe situations that are generally, but not always, formal. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature. It finds its usage across various contexts like News & Media, Wiki and Science, denoting a neutral-to-professional register. When using the phrase, acknowledge it states the general formality of a situation, permitting deviations. Alternatives such as "typically formal" or "generally formal" provide similar meanings. Be sure to avoid employing the phrase to describe cases of absolute formality to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically formal

This alternative emphasizes the typical nature of formality, synonymous with "usually".

generally formal

Focuses on the widespread nature of formality in the described situation.

ordinarily formal

Highlights the customary or normal aspect of the formality.

customarily formal

Indicates that formality is a custom or established practice.

commonly formal

Stresses the common occurrence of formality.

frequently formal

Emphasizes the repeated or habitual nature of the formality.

predominantly formal

Highlights that formality is the main or dominant characteristic.

in most cases formal

Clarifies that formality is present in the majority of instances.

more often than not formal

Expresses that formality is more likely than informality.

mostly formal

Similar to "generally", but may imply a slightly higher degree of formality.

FAQs

How can I use "usually formal" in a sentence?

Use "usually formal" to describe situations or events that generally adhere to formal standards, but may occasionally deviate. For instance, "Business meetings are "usually formal", but sometimes a more casual approach is adopted".

What are some alternatives to "usually formal"?

You can use alternatives such as "typically formal", "generally formal", or "ordinarily formal", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "mostly formal" instead of "usually formal"?

While "mostly formal" and "usually formal" are similar, "usually formal" suggests a habitual or typical condition, whereas "mostly formal" implies that formality is the predominant characteristic. The choice depends on the specific context and intended meaning.

What's the difference between "usually formal" and "always formal"?

"Usually formal" indicates that formality is the norm but exceptions exist, whereas "always formal" implies that formality is an invariable requirement. Using "usually formal" acknowledges potential variations in the level of formality.