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

Every night before dinner, my father would perform this ritual—rinsing and draining, then setting the pot in the cooker.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 Sep. 2026
Between prayer times, visitors quietly share the space with worshippers, who gather at the fountains outside for ritual ablutions before entering.

— Vicki Power, TheWeek, 14 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

This systematic integration of DPI means that a small-scale weaver in India or an artisan in Egypt can plug directly into a multi-nation marketplace without navigating complex Western banking rails.

— Mayu Saini, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026
There is a seductive argument for a more systematic approach in the interests of greater consistency, but the issue rarely arises and gets lost among more pressing matters.

— Graham Scott, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026

Definition of systematic

Adjective

Being efficient is paramount with such a methodical approach.

— Dan Duggan, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
Amendment is so essential to the American constitutional tradition, so methodical and so entire a conception of endurance through adaptation, that it can best be described as a philosophy.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 Sep. 2026

Definition of methodical

Browse Nearby Words

formal

formalistic

formalities

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“Formalistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formalistic. Accessed 20 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of formalistic

adjective

Example Sentences

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