Synonyms of formality

formality

noun

fȯr-ˈma-lə-tē 

1

as in gesture

an act or utterance that is a customary show of good manners

bowing to your guest is a formality you don't need to perform for me

Synonyms & Similar Words

• gesture
• courtesy
• politeness
• ceremony
• manners
• ritual
• civility
• etiquette
• rules
• attention
• pleasantry
• amenity
• rite
• greetings
• decorum
• kindness
• observance
• form
• honors
• respects
• regards
• grace
• proprieties
• protocol
• mores
• addresses
• favor
• kindliness
• devoirs

2

as in ritual

an oft-repeated action or series of actions performed in accordance with tradition or a set of rules

churchgoers loved the formalities of a traditional Christmas Eve candlelight service

Synonyms & Similar Words

• ritual
• ceremony
• ceremonial
• observance
• rite
• tradition
• solemnity
• celebration
• form
• decorum
• practice
• etiquette
• civility
• protocol
• standard
• manners
• convention
• habit
• graces
• proprieties
• amenities
• custom
• service
• way
• mores

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of formality

While formality levels vary from one workplace to the next, some interview-dressing guidelines almost always are worth following. — Cathy Bussewitz, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2026

Max knocks on the door, a strange formality for a man about to burn the boat down to the waterline. — Jp Mangalindan, Time, 31 July 2026

Arfsten is expected to travel in the coming days to complete the move, pending formalities, sources say. — Tom Bogert, New York Times, 31 July 2026

For those in need of more coverage, a thinner cotton layer placed under a heavier velvet or patterned fabric creates balance and lends a sense of formality and structure to your room. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 28 July 2026