ENGLISH
REFERENCE

formally

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈfɔɹməɫi// UK //fˈɔːməli// for·mal·ly

adv. in a serious or official way. You use this when people follow strict rules, wear smart clothes, or make an official announcement.

adv. in accordance with established rules, conventions, or official procedures; in a manner that observes proper etiquette or dress codes.


SIMPLE

The two leaders will meet formally tomorrow morning.

CONTEXTUAL

Although they had been working together for months, they were only formally introduced at the annual gala.

COMPLEX

The treaty must be formally ratified by the parliament before any of the proposed economic changes can be legally enforced across the member states.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From formal + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed after the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause; can also appear before the main verb for emphasis.

Pitfall

He dressed formal for the weddingHe dressed formally for the weddingLearners often use the adjective 'formal' instead of the adverb 'formally' to describe how an action is performed.

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