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

Gerrymandering makes many general elections little more than formalities. — J.c. Polanco, New York Daily News, 17 July 2026

For Blanche, the confirmation process is essentially a formality. — Quinta Jurecic, The Atlantic, 16 July 2026

The bodies of the victims were being transported to Ho Chi Minh City before being flown to India after official formalities, according to the embassy. — CBS News, 13 July 2026

Hosting Harry, Meghan and their children there provided a secluded setting away from the formality and scrutiny of the London royal residences. — Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 10 July 2026