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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.
Examples of formality in a Sentence
Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026
The Miles is simple enough to suit many design styles, from midcentury to maximalist, yet plenty structured to have an air of formality.
—Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 13 May 2026
Once the hosts were in front, a home win looked a formality unless Farke opted to roll the dice and change a setup which had clearly not been working.
—Beren Cross, New York Times, 11 May 2026
Large beige curtains can add a delicate formality and coziness to your living room while still conforming to your style.
—Macie Stump, Southern Living, 10 May 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Formality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formality. Accessed 21 May. 2026.
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formality
noun
