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verb C1 Advanced Uncommon

formulate

FAWM-yuu-layt

Formulate (verb) means to develop and express an idea, plan, or statement clearly and precisely. Example: “The committee formulated a new policy on remote work.”

verb
1
To develop and express an idea, plan, or statement clearly and precisely.
"The committee formulated a new policy on remote work."
"It took her a while to formulate a response."

How to use formulate

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo carefully put a plan, idea, or statement into precise words or steps.

Common pairings
formulate a plan formulate a strategy formulate a response

Word forms

formulated past tense, formulates singular

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Test yourself on “formulate” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The committee _____ a new policy on remote work.

Etymology

From formula + the verb-forming suffix -ate, ultimately from Latin forma, "shape."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for formulate

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Frequently asked questions

What does “formulate” mean?

The word “formulate” means to develop and express an idea, plan, or statement clearly and precisely. In plain terms, to carefully put a plan, idea, or statement into precise words or steps.

How do you pronounce “formulate”?

“Formulate” is pronounced FAWM-yuu-layt (/ˈfɔː(ɹ)mjʊleɪt/ in IPA).

How do you use “formulate” in a sentence?

Here is “formulate” used in a sentence: “The committee formulated a new policy on remote work.”

What part of speech is “formulate”?

“Formulate” is a verb.

Where does the word “formulate” come from?

The word “formulate” comes from Latin. From formula + the verb-forming suffix -ate, ultimately from Latin forma, "shape.".

Is “formulate” a common word?

“Formulate” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial