FORMATIVE Synonyms: 9 Similar and Opposite Words

formative

adjective

ˈfȯr-mə-tiv

Definition of formative

as in creative

having a role in deciding something's final form a teacher who was a formative influence on generations of students

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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 formative The journey unfolds across eight immersive rooms, with each one exploring facets of Garcia’s life and artistry, from the formative San Francisco years to pioneering work in sound technology and visual art. — Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 3 Aug. 2026 Crispitos No taste is more indicative of my formative years than the cheesy, meaty crunch of a Crispito. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2026 Those pledges defined their formative years, shaping expectations about their country’s trajectory and their place within it. — Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 28 July 2026 Actor Dominic Sessa retraces the late legend’s volatile yet formative years as a Provincetown line-cook. — Ok McCausland, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for formative

Recent Examples of Synonyms for formative

Adjective

The creative team also includes Alex Lacamoire on music supervision and orchestrations, David Korins on scenic design, Gregg Barnes and Sky Switser on costume design, Natasha Katz on lighting design and Peter Hylenski on sound design.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 15 Aug. 2026
As the perfumery acknowledges, these collaborations allow the brand to gain exposure in other creative spheres while also creating a product that is reflective of both specialties.

— Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of creative

Adjective

This phase of reconciliation positions Turkey – a key and well-armed member of NATO – to exert a constructive and stabilizing influence in the region.

— The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 11 Aug. 2026
That resilience is also keeping Varadhan constructive on credit.

— Yun Li, CNBC, 10 Aug. 2026

Definition of constructive

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formations

formative

formats

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“Formative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formative. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of formative

adjective

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