English
formal
Pronunciation
  • (GA) IPA: /ˈfɔɹməl/
  • (RP) IPA: /ˈfɔːməl/
Adjective

formal

  1. Being in accord with established forms.
    She spoke formal English, without any dialect.
  2. Official.
    I'd like to make a formal complaint.
  3. Relating to the form or structure of something.
    Formal linguistics ignores the vocabulary of languages and focuses solely on their grammar.
  4. Relating to formation.
    The formal stage is a critical part of any child's development.
  5. Ceremonial or traditional.
    Formal wear must be worn at my wedding!
  6. Proper, according to strict etiquette; not casual.
    He's always very formal, and I wish he'd relax a bit.
  7. Organized; well-structured and planned.
    When they became a formal club the rowers built a small boathouse.
  8. (mathematics) Relating to mere manipulation and construction of strings of symbols, without regard to their meaning.
    Formal series are defined without any reference to convergence.
Antonyms Related terms Translations Translations Translations Translations Translations Noun

formal

  1. (uncountable) Formalin.
  2. An evening gown.
  3. An event with a formal dress code.
    Jenny took Sam to her Year 12 formal.
  4. (programming) A formal parameter.
Related terms
  • essive-formal


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