formality

noun

for·​mal·​i·​ty fȯr-ˈma-lə-tē 

plural formalities

1

: compliance with formal or conventional rules : ceremony

2

: the quality or state of being formal

3

: an established form or procedure that is required or conventional

the interview was just a formality

Did you know?

Formal behavior follows the proper forms or customs, and informal behavior feels free to ignore them. The formality of a dinner party is indicated by such formalities as invitations, required dress, and full table settings. Legal formalities, or technicalities, may turn out to be all-important even if they often seem minor. America requires fewer formalities than many other countries (in Germany, for example, you may know someone for years before using his or her first name), but even in relaxed situations Americans may be observing invisible formalities.

Synonyms

• amenity
• attention
• civility
• courtesy
• gesture
• pleasantry
• politeness

Examples of formality in a Sentence

Her use of old-fashioned language lends an air of formality to her writing.

He failed to appreciate the formality of the occasion.

They haven't approved the loan yet, but that's just a mere formality.

Recent Examples on the Web

When training camp began on July 31, Leonard was back on the field and soon won the starting job, which was a formality considering his experience and the money Notre Dame invested to convince him to play for the school. —Tim Casey, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024

Nominees face more opposition, but senators stick with their parties Cabinet confirmation votes used to be a formality; throughout most of the 20th century, presidents' Cabinet nominees were typically confirmed unanimously or near-unanimously. —Geoffrey Skelley, ABC News, 19 Dec. 2024

Ratification is usually a formality, though the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees very nearly voted down its contract in 2021. —Gene Maddaus, Variety, 10 Dec. 2024

What's next: The steering committee's pick still has to be finalized by the full House Republican conference, but that's largely a formality. —Victoria Knight, Axios, 9 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

formality

noun

for·​mal·​i·​ty fȯr-ˈmal-ət-ē 

plural formalities

1

: a going along with formal or customary rules : ceremony

2

: the quality or state of being formal

3

: an established form that is required or usual

the interview was just a formality