Word
formality
Phoneticsfor·mal·i·ty, stress on the second syllable
US/fɔɹˈmæɫəti/
UK/fɔːmˈælɪti/
Countable & uncountable
Definition
n. something you do because it is a rule or a social custom, even if it does not feel necessary. It can also mean following very polite and official behavior.
n. the rigid observance of conventional rules, etiquette, or official procedures. Often refers to an action performed as a matter of routine or requirement rather than for its inherent value.
Examples
“The job interview was just a formality because I already had the position.”
“The signing of the contract was a mere formality after months of intense negotiations between the two legal teams.”
“While the board meeting was technically a formality, the CEO maintained a high level of professional decorum to ensure that all procedural standards were visibly upheld.”
Examples
simple
“The job interview was just a formality because I already had the position.”
contextual
“The signing of the contract was a mere formality after months of intense negotiations between the two legal teams.”
complex
“While the board meeting was technically a formality, the CEO maintained a high level of professional decorum to ensure that all procedural standards were visibly upheld.”
Usage
Uncountable when referring to the quality of being formal; countable when referring to a specific rule or procedure.
Real-World Examples
“In the past, the appointment was largely a formality, as most Moroccan parties were led by a single secretary general, making it clear who would be nominated to head the government.” “Guests are also expected to pen a thank-you note afterward, again with a degree of formality matched to the occasion.” Etymology
From Middle French formalité. equivalent to formal + -ity.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/formality