Definition of FORMAL
FORMAL Adjective
Formal is an adjective used to describe something that conforms to established rules, conventions, or standards, particularly in social, professional, or ceremonial contexts. It implies a strict adherence to protocol, etiquette, or traditional practices.
Conformance to Rules and Standards: In a formal setting, adherence to established rules, regulations, or standards is paramount. This may include following specific dress codes, protocols for communication, or procedures for conducting business or ceremonies. Formality implies a structured approach characterized by precision, orderliness, and attention to detail, ensuring consistency and predictability in interactions and processes.
Etiquette and Protocol: Within social or professional settings, formal behavior often involves observing etiquette and protocol to maintain decorum and respect for others. This may include using formal language, addressing individuals with titles or honorifics, and observing hierarchical norms. Failure to adhere to proper etiquette in formal settings may be perceived as disrespectful or unprofessional, potentially compromising relationships or reputations.
Ceremonial Occasions: Formality is often heightened during ceremonial occasions such as weddings, funerals, or official ceremonies, where adherence to tradition and protocol is emphasized. Ceremonial formalities may include rituals, gestures, or symbolic actions that convey reverence, solemnity, or respect for the occasion and its significance.
Professional Context: In professional environments, formality may be expressed through attire, communication style, and organizational structure. Business attire, formal language, and adherence to corporate policies are typical manifestations of formality in the workplace. Formality in professional contexts serves to establish credibility, professionalism, and respect for organizational hierarchy and authority.
In essence, formality entails adherence to established rules, conventions, and standards, particularly in social, professional, or ceremonial contexts. It reflects a structured approach characterized by respect for tradition, etiquette, and protocol, facilitating orderly and respectful interactions. By understanding the role of formality in different contexts and exercising appropriate judgment, individuals can navigate social and professional environments with confidence and effectiveness.
Examples of FORMAL in a sentence
- She wore a formal gown to the gala, complete with pearls and heels.
- The company has a strict formal dress code, requiring employees to wear suits and ties.
- The invitation specified that the event was formal, prompting guests to dress accordingly.
- During the formal ceremony, the graduates received their diplomas on stage.
- The formal language used in legal documents can be difficult for laypeople to understand.
- The CEO addressed the shareholders in a formal speech, outlining the company’s future plans.
- The wedding was a formal affair held in a grand cathedral, with a reception at a luxury hotel.
- The report followed a formal structure, with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Origin of FORMAL
The term formal describes something that adheres to established rules, conventions, or protocols, often associated with official or ceremonial contexts. Delving into its etymology and usage unveils its significance in delineating structured and regulated behavior or appearance.
- Roots in Latin: “Formal” originates from the Latin word “formalis,” derived from “forma,” meaning “shape” or “appearance.”
- Evolution of Meaning: Originally pertaining to outward appearance or shape, formal evolved to encompass adherence to prescribed norms, standards, or customs, particularly in ceremonial or official settings.
In conclusion, formal serves as a descriptor for behavior, attire, or procedures that conform to established rules or conventions, reflecting a sense of structure, decorum, and respect for tradition. Its etymology underscores its association with appearance or shape, while its usage highlights its role in delineating regulated and ceremonious contexts. Understanding the concept of formal promotes clarity and adherence to established norms, fostering cohesion and order in social, professional, and ceremonial settings.
Synonyms
- Official
- Conventional
- Regulated
- Stately
- Rigid
- Dignified
- Ceremonious
- Orthodox
Antonyms
- Informal
- Casual
- Relaxed
- Unstructured
- Spontaneous
- Easygoing
- Laid-back
- Unconventional
Related
- Protocol
- Procedure
- Ritual
- Established
- Solemn
- Standardized
- Respectful
- Disciplined
🌐 🇬🇧 FORMAL in other languages
| Spanish 🇪🇸 | Formal |
| French 🇫🇷 | Officiel |
| German 🇩🇪 | Formell |
| Chinese (simpl) 🇨🇳 | 正式的 |
| Chinese (trad) 🇨🇳 | 正式的 |
| Italian 🇮🇹 | Formale |
| Portuguese 🇵🇹 | Formal |
| Dutch 🇳🇱 | Formeel |
| Swedish 🇸🇪 | Formell |
| Norwegian 🇳🇴 | Formell |
| Finnish 🇫🇮 | Muodollinen |
| Romanian 🇷🇴 | Formal |
| Polish 🇵🇱 | Formalny |
| Hungarian 🇭🇺 | Hivatalos |
| Czech 🇨🇿 | Formální |
| Bulgarian 🇧🇬 | Официално |
| Ukrainian 🇺🇦 | Формальний |
| Russian 🇷🇺 | Формальный |
| Turkish 🇹🇷 | Resmi |
| Azerbaijani 🇦🇿 | Formal |
| Armenian 🇦🇲 | Պաշտոնական |
| Arabic 🇸🇦 | رَسمِيّ |
| Hebrew 🇮🇱 | רִשְׁמִי |
| Urdu 🇵🇰 | رسمی |
| Farsi/Persian 🇮🇷 | رسمی |
| Hindi 🇮🇳 | औपचारिक |
| Bengaleli/se 🇧🇩 | আনুষ্ঠানিক |
| Marathi 🇮🇳 | औपचारिक |
| Telugu 🇮🇳 | అధికారిక |
| Tamil 🇮🇳 | முறையான |
| Gujarati 🇮🇳 | ઔપચારિક |
| Kannada 🇮🇳 | ಔಪಚಾರಿಕ |
| Odia (Orya) 🇮🇳 | ଔପଚାରିକ |
| Malayalam 🇮🇳 | ഔപചാരികമായ |
| Punjabi 🇮🇳 | ਰਸਮੀ |
| Sinhala/ese 🇱🇰 | විධිමත් |
| Nepali 🇳🇵 | औपचारिक |
| Burmese 🇲🇲 | သုဝဏ္ဏ |
| Thai 🇹🇭 | เป็นทางการ |
| Vietnamese 🇻🇳 | Chính thức |
| Malay 🇲🇾 | Rasmi |
| Indonesian 🇮🇩 | Resmi |
| Tagalog 🇵🇭 | Pormal |
| Japanese 🇯🇵 | フォーマル |
| Korean 🇰🇷 | 공식적인 |
| Oromo 🇪🇹 | Idilee |
| Somali 🇸🇴 | Rasmi ah |
| Amharic 🇪🇹 | መደበኛ |
| Swahili 🇹🇿 | Rasmi |
| Yoruba 🇳🇬 | Lodo |
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