# formality

/fɔɹˈmæɫəti/ (US) · /fɔːmˈælɪti/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/formality
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the quality of being formal; countable when referring to a specific rule or procedure.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.