formulaic

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.

The movie takes on some formulaic thriller trappings in its final act, relying too heavily on strained coincidences.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

“They’re often dry, formulaic and almost meaningless. It’s better if you tell your own story.”

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

The change “may disappoint certain investors who prefer the formulaic return framework,” wrote Siebert Williams Shank analyst Gabriele Sorbara.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

Rosenblatt’s play, though formulaic at times, contains a twist worthy of Dahl himself, as the protagonist grows more monstrous as he digs deeper into his righteous convictions.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 29, 2026

Though not nearly so spectacular, this manifestation of grief for Bunny was in many ways a similar phenomenon—an affirmation of community, a formulaic expression of homage and dread.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt