1
as in gesture
an act or utterance that is a customary show of good manners
bowing to your guest is a formality you don't need to perform for me
Synonyms & Similar Words
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2
as in ritual
an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules
churchgoers loved the formalities of a traditional Christmas Eve candlelight service
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of formality
The performances have a modestly theatrical formality that, in avoiding showiness, conveys the high pressure of life under constant surveillance.
—
Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 5 Feb. 2025
Large beige curtains can add a delicate formality and coziness to your living room while still conforming to your style.
11 of 27
Stick With White
White curtains offer a clean, fresh backdrop that enhances the vibrancy of bright pops of color in your home without competing for attention.
—Macie Stump, Southern Living, 26 Jan. 2025
Wednesday’s order of business was scheduled to start with the vote to elect a new taoiseach but this formality was delayed repeatedly.
—Kathy Rose O'Brien, CNN, 23 Jan. 2025
Trump managed to navigate the obstacle posed by Melania's hat, leaning in to kiss her on the lower cheek and neck—a small but triumphant moment for the couple amid the ceremony's formality.
—Kristen Waggoner, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for formality
Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 5 Feb. 2025
Large beige curtains can add a delicate formality and coziness to your living room while still conforming to your style.
11 of 27
Stick With White
White curtains offer a clean, fresh backdrop that enhances the vibrancy of bright pops of color in your home without competing for attention.
—Macie Stump, Southern Living, 26 Jan. 2025
Wednesday’s order of business was scheduled to start with the vote to elect a new taoiseach but this formality was delayed repeatedly.
—Kathy Rose O'Brien, CNN, 23 Jan. 2025
Trump managed to navigate the obstacle posed by Melania's hat, leaning in to kiss her on the lower cheek and neck—a small but triumphant moment for the couple amid the ceremony's formality.
—Kristen Waggoner, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for formality
Recent Examples of Synonyms for formality
Noun
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Musk’s recent controversial behavior includes addressing an inauguration audience with a gesture many interpreted to be a Nazi salute.—
Brian Niemietz,
New York Daily News,
6 Mar. 2025
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The actress didn't seem to shy away from the gesture, and appeared to welcome the affectionate embrace.—
Thomas G. Moukawsher,
Newsweek,
5 Mar. 2025
Noun
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Listen to this article A Southern University student has died following an off-campus ritual with the Omega Psi Phi fraternity.—
David Matthews,
New York Daily News,
28 Feb. 2025
-
Neighborhood theaters made attending movies a weekly or even daily ritual for audiences.—
Michael Wells,
Kansas City Star,
28 Feb. 2025
Noun
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The latest twist comes courtesy of Samsung Romania, which seemingly leaked an Android 15 timetable from the company’s Korean HQ on a Zoom call.—
Zak Doffman,
Forbes,
26 Feb. 2025
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Related Articles Miss Manners: My husband has decided that these courtesies are sexist Asking Eric: Our bossy sister said there won’t be a party.—
Jeanne Phillips,
The Mercury News,
25 Feb. 2025
Noun
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Knowing that a little laughter is always levitating at any awards show, the Fashion Group International has recruited the actress and producer Tiffany Haddish to host its Rising Star Awards ceremony.—
Rosemary Feitelberg,
WWD,
7 Mar. 2025
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The drink has been part of Pacific Islander culture for thousands of years, often used as a part of social gatherings and tribal ceremonies.—
Jenna Thompson,
Kansas City Star,
7 Mar. 2025
Noun
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In addition to Ducasse’s culinary mastery, offering a cohesive experience that encompasses the liveried staff in period costumes and the ceremonial is part and parcel of the success of the banquet, according to Révah.—
Lily Templeton,
WWD,
20 Feb. 2025
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In Chicago, a second roll-call vote will take place, this one ceremonial.—
Tribune News Service,
The Mercury News,
16 Aug. 2024
Noun
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The interfaith gathering was held in observance of Ramadan, the holiest month for believers of Islam.—
Lauren Costantino,
Miami Herald,
6 Mar. 2025
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Many Chinese miners had September 2nd off, in observance of a holiday.—
Michael Luo,
The New Yorker,
3 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Formality.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formality. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.
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