formalize

verb

ˈfȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce formalize (audio)
Definition of formalizenext
1
as in to standardize
to make agree with a single established standard or model we'll need to formalize our research results before we submit our study for review

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to approve
to give official acceptance of as satisfactory the plan has yet to be formalized by the city council

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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 formalize The announcement also formalizes Goldman’s growing business helping clients find liquidity for private investments. — Hugh Son, CNBC, 21 July 2026 Pasolini’s emphasis on the violence and mystery of Bronze Age life extends to elaborate presentations of religious pageantry, including human sacrifice, that are both choreographic and anthropological, in images as formalized as the onscreen action. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 15 July 2026 Both laws represent significant concessions by Netanyahu’s Likud party to ultra-Orthodox politicians seeking to formalize their community’s de facto exemption from serving in the military, which is compulsory for most Jewish men and women in Israel. — Melanie Lidman, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026 The question is not whether to build a new system from scratch, but whether to acknowledge and formalize the one that already exists. — Sriman Swarup, STAT, 13 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for formalize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for formalize
  1. standardize
  2. approve
  3. ratify
  4. confirm
  5. finalize
Verb
  • Founded in 1904, FIFA’s original mission was to unify national football associations, standardize the laws of the game, and create a centralized international football championship.
    — Simon Chadwick, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
  • In the short term, the goal is to standardize the parts customers won’t see, much the same way automakers do within their current lineups.
    — Byron Hurd, The Drive, 16 July 2026
Definition of standardize
Verb
  • The New York Times, citing unnamed US officials, said the agreement would be announced Wednesday while the Wall Street Journal said Trump had now formally approved the deal.
    — Arpita Dasika, CNN Money, 22 July 2026
  • Last year, Holscher and Corson both voted to approve a 20-year sales tax exemptions for developers who commit to investing $250 million and creating at least 20 permanent jobs.
    — Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 22 July 2026
Definition of approve
Verb
  • It was supposed to go into effect in January of this year, but last summer the FDA proposed extending that date by 30 months, pushing it to 2028, which Congress then ratified.
    — Bryce Covert, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 July 2026
  • The employees who operate and maintain the Plane Train that shepherds thousands of passengers daily through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport have ratified their first union contract — including an immediate 18% raise.
    — Mirtha Donastorg, AJC.com, 20 July 2026
Definition of ratify
Verb
  • French football sensation Kylian Mbappe has been confirmed as the cover athlete for EA FC 27's Ultimate Edition and mobile version, continuing his reign as the face of EA's premier football franchise after his Golden Boot win at the 2026 World Cup.
    — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
  • To become secretary-general, a candidate must receive a state nomination, win the endorsement of the Security Council without being vetoed, and get confirmed by the General Assembly.
    — Paloma Chavez, PEOPLE, 22 July 2026
Definition of confirm
Verb
  • The states, led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, have asked a judge to issue a temporary restraining order that would prevent Paramount from finalizing its deal as the court battle ramps up.
    — Boston Herald Wire Services, Boston Herald, 19 July 2026
  • Married from 2005 until their divorce was finalized in 2018, the two co-parent Violet, now 20, Seraphina, 17, and Samuel, 14.
    — Valentina Dirindin, Vanity Fair, 18 July 2026
Definition of finalize

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formalizations
formalize
formalized
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Cite this Entry

“Formalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formalize. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of formalize for Spanish Speakers

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