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

The formality of the event is certainly taken into consideration, which may explain why Prince William didn't wear sunglasses while attending Pope Francis' funeral over the weekend. —Meredith Kile, People.com, 30 Apr. 2025

Families need to address the formalities of all transactions. —Martin Shenkman, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025

Executive orders come out of the White House that are plainly unlawful without even the formality of consulting OLC. —Noah Feldman, Twin Cities, 28 Apr. 2025

Analysis: Ramsey still being on the Dolphins roster is merely a formality because the divorce is imminent. —Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for formality

• banality
• bestiality
• brutality
• carnality
• centrality
• chirality
• duality
• fatality
• finality
• frugality
• legality
• lethality

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