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 ritual hum of leaf blowers fires up in the fall and marks the change in season as much as vibrant leaves falling from the trees.

— BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026
Along the route taken by tourists and pilgrims are several steles marking ritual proclamations made on behalf of emperors during the first year of each reign.

— ABC News, ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026

Definition of ritual

Adjective

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

— Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of ritualistic

Adjective

The movements that arose out of the deaths of Black people at the hands of largely white police officers and the systematic abuse of women by powerful men were hallmarks of 21st-century progressive thinking.

— Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 Sep. 2026
Art history is full of artists like McNeely and Soutine, on society’s margins and empathizing with our species’ cold, systematic violence toward other animals.

— Emily Watlington, ARTnews.com, 18 Sep. 2026

Definition of systematic

Adjective

Even so, executives have been methodical, not rushed, about crafting CNN’s new interactive format.

— Brian Steinberg, Variety, 23 Sep. 2026
The Chiefs added a field goal, but the Colts responded with a methodical 13-play drive that featured a nice mix of Taylor, Warren and wide receiver Josh Downs, capped by Taylor’s second touchdown of the night to tie the score at 27.

— Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 21 Sep. 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 26 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of formalistic

adjective

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