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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
Joshua McElwee,
USA Today,
2 July 2026
And with so many dress codes in mind for the family, this was an unconventional choice in a setting defined by formality and tradition.
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Amanda Le,
InStyle,
29 June 2026
In 2024, Joe Biden sailed to the Democratic presidential nomination after a primary process that was little more than a formality, with the Florida Democratic Party even cancelling its primary in March to anoint Biden.
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Sun Sentinel Editorial Board,
Sun Sentinel,
28 June 2026
Anderson’s collection was about formality losing its grip — tuxedos loosened, denim ripped, sequins flashing, disco-ball boots stepping through a house built on old-world taste.
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ABC News,
24 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for formality
Cite this Entry
“Formality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/formality. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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formality
noun
