formality

noun

for·​mal·​i·​ty fȯr-ˈma-lə-tē 

plural formalities

1

: compliance with formal or conventional rules : ceremony

2

: the quality or state of being formal

3

: an established form or procedure that is required or conventional

The interview was just a formality.

Did you know?

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.

Synonyms of formality

• gesture
• courtesy

Examples of formality in a Sentence

Her use of old-fashioned language lends an air of formality to her writing.

He failed to appreciate the formality of the occasion.

They haven't approved the loan yet, but that's just a mere formality.

Recent Examples on the Web

The cut offers the formality of a longer hemline while leaving some ankle and calf visible, which can make legs appear longer. — Malia Griggs, Glamour, 23 July 2026

Many who attended the forum presumed that the liquor license was a formality and that Decurion had no intention of reopening the Dome, and Sony was certainly not on the radar at that time. — Brian Welk, IndieWire, 22 July 2026

Winning the French title should be a formality once again, meaning becoming a triple Champions League winner is the big target for PSG and their manager Luis Enrique. — Tim Spiers, New York Times, 21 July 2026

In many other countries, there is more formality than Americans are used to, and violating this is interpreted as disrespect. — Judith Martin, Mercury News, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for formality

• banality
• bestiality
• brutality
• carnality
• centrality
• chirality
• duality
• fatality
• finality
• frugality
• legality
• lethality

Kids Definition

formality

noun

for·​mal·​i·​ty fȯr-ˈmal-ət-ē 

plural formalities

1

: a going along with formal or customary rules : ceremony

2

: the quality or state of being formal

3

: an established form that is required or usual

the interview was just a formality