FORMALISTIC Synonyms: 48 Similar and Opposite Words

formalistic

adjective

Definition of formalistic

as in ritual

Related Words

Relevance

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of formalistic In overruling Humphrey’s, the Roberts Court is solidifying a formalistic version of the separation of powers that narrows congressional power while expanding presidential power. — George Thomas, The Atlantic, 30 June 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for formalistic

Adjective

Beliefs and practices Hoodoo consists of ritual procedures designed to encourage the supernatural or spirit world to assist the living.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026
The quakes hit as La Guaira was marking the feast of San Juan, an annual celebration featuring the ritual beating of drums.

— Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of ritual

Adjective

Human figures are often seen in floating, dynamic, and contorted positions, potentially engaging in shamanic journeys or ritualistic collective dances.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 13 Aug. 2026
Several symbolic scenes, similarly unfolding in sinuous long takes—a ritualistic repetition of local habits at the junk yard, a formal dance of non-seduction at a luncheonette with a jukebox—lay bare the town’s ingrained and unyielding mores.

— Richard Brody, New Yorker, 11 Aug. 2026

Definition of ritualistic

Adjective

With plans to eventually host six 1,000-megawatt reactors, the Haiyang base stands as a centerpiece in China’s rapid, systematic push toward clean energy dominance.

— Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 18 Aug. 2026
Globally, a 2026 systematic review estimated that 1 in 5 athletes have an eating disorder or disordered eating behaviors or symptoms.

— Erin Harrop, The Conversation, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of systematic

Adjective

Playing against an unbreakable Lynx defensive shell, the methodical Valkyries offense showed its worst habits.

— Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 20 Aug. 2026
Kateri’s section is quieter and methodical like its central hero, who slips undetected among this community to sow her chaos and reap her revenge.

— Katie Walsh, Boston Herald, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of methodical

Browse Nearby Words

formal

formalistic

formalities

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Formalistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formalistic. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

Copy Citation

Synonyms of formalistic

adjective

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

prowess

Popular in Grammar & Usage

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

How to Pronounce the Trickiest Menu Items

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

Do you 'say your piece' or 'say your peace'?

Why is '-ed' sometimes pronounced at the end of a word?

Popular in Wordplay

Words from the 'Odyssey'

The Longest Long Words List

Even More Words That Sound Like Insults But Aren't

The Words of the Week - Aug. 21

12 Lovely and Unusual Words for the Natural World

Popular

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

Words from the 'Odyssey'

The Longest Long Words List

Games & Quizzes