as in creative
having a role in deciding something's final form
a teacher who was a formative influence on generations of students
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of formative
The disguise — which is pretty effective, even with formative generative AI modes — was only revealed about 15 minutes into the film, a neat bit of storytelling that highlighted the power of deepfakery.
—
Jake Kanter, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2026
The ages between 9 and 12—that is, the tween years—are extremely formative.
—Anna Earl, Parents, 12 Mar. 2026
Setting off on excursions into one of the wildest parts of the Earth would be a formative experience for any child, making this an ideal adventure for families to share together.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026
But a lot of those formative years were spent toiling in London’s open-mic scene and busking on the streets.
—Julyssa Lopez, Rolling Stone, 11 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for formative
Jake Kanter, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2026
The ages between 9 and 12—that is, the tween years—are extremely formative.
—Anna Earl, Parents, 12 Mar. 2026
Setting off on excursions into one of the wildest parts of the Earth would be a formative experience for any child, making this an ideal adventure for families to share together.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026
But a lot of those formative years were spent toiling in London’s open-mic scene and busking on the streets.
—Julyssa Lopez, Rolling Stone, 11 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for formative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for formative
Adjective
-
The renovation was designed by Sage Studio, the in-house creative team of the hotel’s management company, Sage Hospitality, and DLR Group, a global design firm.—
Jessica Alvarado Gamez,
Denver Post,
19 Mar. 2026
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Most people are here for an easy getaway in the area—creative types on low-key weekend escapes from Los Angeles and couples who want something chic but unfussy.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
19 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
The president attributed the reversal to productive talks with Iran.—
Charlene Gubash,
NBC news,
24 Mar. 2026
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Nighttime proved especially productive, when nocturnal creatures like snakes and geckos emerged from hiding.—
Hanna Wickes,
Charlotte Observer,
24 Mar. 2026
Adjective
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Standard Chartered also remains constructive, citing similar long-term drivers.—
Lee Ying Shan,
CNBC,
24 Mar. 2026
-
Your constructive 6th house hosts the conjunction of the dynamic Sun and elusive Neptune, lending you extra drive around daily tasks, co-workers, and personal care.—
Tarot.com,
Sun Sentinel,
22 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Formative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formative. Accessed 25 Mar. 2026.
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