formality
n. C / Un. 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.
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.
From Middle French formalité. equivalent to formal + -ity.
Uncountable when referring to the quality of being formal; countable when referring to a specific rule or procedure.