verbal formulae

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "verbal formulae" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing language, linguistics, or communication where specific phrases or expressions are being analyzed or referenced. Example: "In linguistics, verbal formulae are often studied to understand how language patterns are constructed and used in conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I didn't read faces like books (I didn't read many books)." But, unbookishly, he needs those verbal formulae, the rudiments of expression.

The Guardian - Books

If rules are simply verbal formulae, then, as Wittgenstein put it, "no course of action could be determined by a rule, because every course of action can be made out to accord with the rule".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Your Honor, respectfully note our exception," he said, hewing close to a verbal formula.

The New York Times

It would be easy, she said, for a candidate to make a promise while avoiding a particular verbal formula.

The New York Times

The IRA is not, despite Tony Blair's smiles, going to concede to the clever Hillsborough decommissioning verbal formula.

The Guardian

Verbal formulas and clichés were used by the better poets as an effective narrative shorthand, especially in the epic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The term sacramental is used to designate verbal formulas (such as blessings) or objects (such as holy water or medals) to which a religious significance has been attached.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She seemed always on the verge of bestowing something – some talisman, some magic token you'd need to get through the dark forest, some verbal formula useful for the opening of charmed doors".

The Guardian - Books

This was the case with her original childhood faith – her early sense of God was "entirely iconic" – rooted in images and sensory experiences rather than ideas and verbal formulas.

The Guardian - Opinion

They own phrases like 'judicial activism' and 'judicial restraint.' " At her hearings, Justice Sotomayor often responded to questions about her judicial philosophy with a simple verbal formula, saying she would apply the law to the facts.

The New York Times

The five meetings in January ended on an acrimonious note after the Palestinian envoy refused to allow an Israeli military official to outline Israel's security requirements and the Israeli envoy offered a vague, verbal formula on territorial issues that would have existing settlement blocs becoming part of Israel, a stance the Palestinians rejected as unacceptable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing specific linguistic features or patterns, use "verbal formulae" to denote established and conventional expressions.

Common error

Avoid using "verbal formulae" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "expressions" or "phrases" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "verbal formulae" is as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig highlights, this term is used to refer to established and conventional expressions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "verbal formulae" is a noun phrase used to describe established and conventional expressions. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts, particularly in academic, scientific, and journalistic writing. Though relatively rare, its consistent usage in authoritative sources underscores its validity. When writing, consider using simpler terms in informal settings and be mindful of the specific linguistic patterns you're describing. The suggested related phrases offer alternative ways to express similar concepts. Ultimately, understanding the appropriate context is key to effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spoken formulas

Focuses on the spoken nature of the formulas.

oral expressions

Highlights the oral delivery of the expressions.

formulaic language

Uses an adjective to describe the language as following a formula.

worded patterns

Emphasizes the patterned arrangement of words.

fixed expressions

Emphasizes the unchanging nature of the expressions.

set phrases

Indicates established and fixed phrases.

conventional expressions

Stresses the traditional or accepted nature of the expressions.

verbal constructs

Highlights the constructed nature of the verbal forms.

canned phrases

Suggests pre-prepared and readily available phrases.

lexical bundles

Focuses on groups of words that frequently occur together.

FAQs

How to use "verbal formulae" in a sentence?

"Verbal formulae" are used to describe established patterns of words in language. For example, "The study of "verbal formulae" is essential in understanding cultural communication patterns."

What can I say instead of "verbal formulae"?

You can use alternatives like "spoken formulas", "oral expressions", or "set phrases" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "verbal formulae"?

Use "verbal formulae" in academic, scientific, or formal writing when analyzing language patterns, linguistic structures, or conventional expressions. It's particularly relevant in discussions of rhetoric, linguistics, and cultural studies.

What's the difference between "verbal formulae" and "clichés"?

"Verbal formulae" refers to established patterns of words and may not always have negative connotations, while "clichés" are overused expressions that have lost their impact. Although a cliché may start as a "verbal formula", over time it becomes trite and unoriginal.