Word
formulae
Phoneticsfor·mu·lae
US/ˈfɔɹmjəˌɫeɪ/
UK/fˈɔːmjʊlˌiː/
Definition
n. the plural form of formula. These are sets of rules, symbols, or ingredients used to solve a problem or make something.
n. the plural of 'formula', specifically in mathematical, scientific, or technical contexts. Refers to fixed patterns of symbols or rules used to express relationships or achieve a specific result.
Examples
“The students memorized several chemical formulae for the exam.”
“The software uses complex mathematical formulae to calculate the trajectory of the satellite in real time.”
“While 'formulas' is common in general speech, scientific journals often prefer 'formulae' when discussing the precise chemical compositions of the newly discovered compounds.”
Examples
simple
“The students memorized several chemical formulae for the exam.”
contextual
“The software uses complex mathematical formulae to calculate the trajectory of the satellite in real time.”
complex
“While 'formulas' is common in general speech, scientific journals often prefer 'formulae' when discussing the precise chemical compositions of the newly discovered compounds.”
Usage
A Latin-style plural of 'formula'. In modern English, 'formulas' is more common in general contexts, while 'formulae' is preferred in scientific and mathematical writing.
Pitfall
These formulae is correct.
These formulae are correct.
Formulae is a plural noun and requires a plural verb agreement.
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/formulae