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

The waterway relied on gravity to transport water to the Second Temple complex, the center of Jewish religious life at the time, where it was used for ritual purification and cleaning up after sacrifices.

— Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026
In its last edition, the biennale focused on the theme of kawruh, a Javenese word that means deep, lived knowledge that comes from habit and ritual.

— News Desk, Artforum, 9 Oct. 2026

Definition of ritual

Adjective

Pomeroy and her colleagues excavated the remains from inside Shanidar Cave, an archaeological site in Iraqi Kurdistan famous for containing evidence of ritualistic Neanderthal burials.

— Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 15 Oct. 2026
Experts suspect the pigment may be cinnabar, a mercury sulfide mineral that held immense spiritual and ritualistic value for the Chimu, explicitly reserved for high-ranking members of society.

— Francesca Aton, ARTnews.com, 11 Sep. 2026

Definition of ritualistic

Adjective

The fungus causes a severe infection associated with a 60% to 70% fatality rate, even with aggressive medical intervention, according to a systematic review published in Medical Mycology.

— Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2026
Federal law restricts systematic voter roll removals within 90 days of a federal election.

— Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of systematic

Adjective

The pair seemed prepared and methodical—not sloppy carousers but people with a plan.

— Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026
Fresno State opened the game with a methodical 10-play, 75-yard touchdown drive to whip the home crowd into an excited frenzy.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 11 Oct. 2026

Definition of methodical

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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 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of formalistic

adjective

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