Formality

B2 16+

Pronunciation: /fɔrˈmæləti/

Definitions of formality

noun the condition or quality of being formal; adherence to prescribed forms or customs

Example Sentences

A1 Wearing a suit and tie is a formality for many job interviews.

A2 In some cultures, bowing is a formality when greeting someone.

B1 The exchange of business cards is a common formality in professional settings.

B2 Despite the formality of the event, everyone seemed to be having a good time at the gala.

C1 The formality of the legal proceedings made the situation feel even more serious.

C2 Her speech was delivered with such eloquence and formality that it left the audience in awe.

adjective formal

Example Sentences

A1 Wearing a suit and tie is a formality for many job interviews.

A2 In some cultures, bowing is a formality when greeting someone.

B1 The formality of the event required guests to dress in formal attire.

B2 The formality of the contract made it legally binding.

C1 The formality of the diplomatic meeting required strict protocol.

C2 The formality of the ceremony was evident in the elaborate decorations and formal speeches.

Examples of formality in a Sentence

formal The formality of the event required guests to wear black-tie attire.

informal We don't need to worry about all the formality, just come as you are.

slang Let's skip all the formality and just hang out like old times.

figurative The formality of the situation made it difficult for them to communicate openly.

Grammatical Forms of formality

past tense

formalized

plural

formalities

comparative

more formal

superlative

most formal

present tense

formalizes

future tense

will formalize

perfect tense

has formalized

continuous tense

is formalizing

singular

formality

positive degree

formal

infinitive

to formalize

gerund

formalizing

participle

formalized

Origin and Evolution of formality

First Known Use: 1530 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'formality' originated from the Latin word 'formalis' which means 'pertaining to form'.
Evolution of the word: Initially used to describe adherence to established rules or customs, the meaning of 'formality' has evolved to also include behaviors or actions done in a prescribed or conventional way, often with a sense of obligation or decorum.