formality
fawr-MA-lih-tee
Formality (noun) means a required official procedure, often just a routine step. Example: “Signing the paperwork is just a formality at this point.”
noun
1
A required official procedure, often just a routine step.
"Signing the paperwork is just a formality at this point."
"There are a few legal formalities to complete before the sale is final."
2
The quality of being formal or proper in manner.
"The ceremony was marked by great formality."
How to use formality
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA required step that's largely routine, or the general quality of being formal and proper.
Common pairings
a mere formality
legal formalities
observe formality
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Word forms
- Plural
- formalities
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Signing the paperwork is just a _____ at this point.
Etymology
From Middle French formalité, from formal + -ity.
Synonyms
View more →
formalness
formalities
Antonyms
informality
Related words
Rhymes for formality
See all rhymes for formality →Frequently asked questions
What does “formality” mean?
The word “formality” means a required official procedure, often just a routine step. In plain terms, a required step that's largely routine, or the general quality of being formal and proper.
How do you pronounce “formality”?
“Formality” is pronounced fawr-MA-lih-tee (/fɔːrˈmælɪti/ in IPA).
How do you use “formality” in a sentence?
Here is “formality” used in a sentence: “Signing the paperwork is just a formality at this point.”
What part of speech is “formality”?
“Formality” is a noun.
Where does the word “formality” come from?
The word “formality” comes from Middle French. From Middle French formalité, from formal + -ity.
Is “formality” a common word?
“Formality” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “formality” have?
“Formality” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a required official procedure, often just a routine step.
