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Definitions

formal

[fawr-muhl] / ˈfɔr məl /
ADJECTIVE
established, orderly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
academic ceremonial explicit legal precise proper solemn strict
STRONG
express official regular ritual set
WEAK
approved ceremonialistic ceremonious confirmed conventional decorous directed fixed formalistic lawful methodical prescribed pro forma punctilious rigid ritualistic stately stereotyped stereotypical systematic
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ambiguous inaccurate indefinite ordinary
WEAK
customary disorderly informal normal relaxed unaffected
ADJECTIVE
stiff, affected, correct
Synonyms
STRONGEST
polite precise
STRONG
nominal
WEAK
aloof by the numbers ceremonious conventional decorous distant exact playing the game prim punctilious reserved seemly sententious starched stilted straight arrow stuffy unbending
Antonyms
WEAK
customary disorderly informal normal relaxed unaffected

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Iran is pushing for formal recognition of its right to charge oil tankers a transit fee in the Strait of Hormuz as part of war-end negotiations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Bonta argued that the formal court order was necessary because “what the sheriff says and what he does are often two different things.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

The go-forward company will be listed on the Nasdaq, signaling Pasqal’s formal entry into the U.S. market.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

It has recommended "a discretionary exemption" from the 75% backdated premium "which is progressing through the council's formal decision-making process".

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

Given the tragic and unique circumstances of his elevation to the presidency, it was decided that it would not be appropriate for him to deliver a formal public inaugural address.

From "Chasing Lincoln's Killer" by James L. Swanson