formalistic

adjective

Definition of formalisticnext
as in ritual

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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
  1. ritual
  2. ritualistic
  3. systematic
  4. methodical
Adjective
  • But partisanship surfaced even in the ritual public mourning for the two women.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 5 Sep. 2026
  • Behind every bottle lies a world shaped by ritual and inheritance, and by those striving to preserve or transform it.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 2 Sep. 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
  • The film details how the tenets of the 14th Amendment, ratified post-Civil War, are now under systematic attack.
    — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Health optimization requires a systematic and sustainable approach.
    — Mick Safron, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of systematic
Adjective
  • The Hurricanes can go slow and methodical and then pounce late or try to attack with big plays early to build up a lead.
    — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 30 Aug. 2026
  • It was put together in such a beautiful, methodical way, and all of the instruments were harmonizing perfectly.
    — Emily Tarinelli, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of methodical

Browse Nearby Words

formal
formalistic
formalities
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Cite this Entry

“Formalistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formalistic. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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