FORMALISTIC Synonyms: 48 Similar and Opposite Words

formalistic

adjective

Definition of formalistic

as in ritual

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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

Still other explanations presume that the gods’ artistic representations in ritual settings are the basis of the meaning of their multiform appearances.

— Charles Preston, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Aug. 2026
After the ritual face-to-face pose, Hrgovic stepped in front of Itauma and began posing for the cameras, prompting Itauma to shove him off the stage.

— ABC News, ABC News, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of ritual

Adjective

There is something almost ritualistic about people gathering around music, dancing together and sharing the same energy.

— Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 25 Aug. 2026
The video for it, projected at large scale in a gallery space lined with a red textile woven with the song’s musical score, follows a ritualistic procession including Björk through an Icelandic valley.

— Andy Battaglia, ARTnews.com, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of ritualistic

Adjective

Rates of relapse among nonpregnant patients averaged 72%, according to a systematic review of 13 studies.

— Amy Yurkanin, ProPublica, 24 Aug. 2026
According to Rohrabaugh, the approach could offer a more systematic alternative to traditional trial-and-error methods and could potentially be applied across different classes of materials.

— Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 22 Aug. 2026

Definition of systematic

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formal

formalistic

formalities

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“Formalistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formalistic. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of formalistic

adjective

Example Sentences

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