as in proms
a social gathering for dancing
he asked her to the formal at the end of the year
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for formals
Noun
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The nearby Hilton Hotel held proms and homecomings, according to Collins.—
Desiree Mathurin,
Charlotte Observer,
3 Feb. 2026 -
The trolley has been used for events like weddings and proms for over a decade.—
Maggie Menderski,
Louisville Courier Journal,
13 Jan. 2026
Noun
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The orchestra in the main ballroom, which accomodated thousands of dancers, played waltzes and also other dances, even sedate rock ‘n’ roll.—
Marla Jo Fisher,
Oc Register,
18 Feb. 2026
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The 15-day spring festival is observed by Chinese communities worldwide, complete with family gatherings, festive decorations, temple visits, lion dances and the exchange of red envelopes symbolizing good fortune, prosperity and renewal.—
Joanna Moriello,
New York Daily News,
17 Feb. 2026
Noun
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The game — part of the NBA All-Star Weekend — saw GloRilla and various other celebs from the worlds of music, TV/film and sports kick off Friday’s evening’s festivities at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California.—
Bob Mehr,
Memphis Commercial Appeal,
13 Feb. 2026
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Buzelis will be the only Bulls representative at the All-Star festivities in Los Angeles.—
Julia Poe,
Chicago Tribune,
13 Feb. 2026
Noun
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One of America's largest and longest-running music festivals is also one of the most musically diverse in the world.—
Piet Levy,
USA Today,
19 Feb. 2026
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The film has screened at more than 15 festivals, including its premiere at SXSW 2025.—
Kennedy French,
Variety,
19 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Formals.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formals. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.
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