Word
formulaic
Phoneticsfor·mu·la·ic, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌfɔɹmjəˈɫeɪɪk/
UK/fˌɔːmjʊlˈeɪɪk/
Definition
adj. following a fixed plan or pattern. It describes something that is done the same way every time, often because it is boring or lacks creativity.
adj. following a fixed plan, pattern, or set of rules. Often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of originality or a mechanical, repetitive quality.
Examples
“The movie has a formulaic plot that you have seen many times before.”
“The marketing team's approach to social media was so formulaic that every post looked exactly the same.”
“While the technical execution of the symphony was flawless, the composition was criticized for being formulaic, relying on predictable harmonic progressions rather than innovative thematic development.”
Examples
simple
“The movie has a formulaic plot that you have seen many times before.”
contextual
“The marketing team's approach to social media was so formulaic that every post looked exactly the same.”
complex
“While the technical execution of the symphony was flawless, the composition was criticized for being formulaic, relying on predictable harmonic progressions rather than innovative thematic development.”
Real-World Examples
“Plot elements that feel formulaic in Élisabeth are more honest and lively in his films.” Etymology
From formula + -ic.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- 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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