INFORMAL Synonyms: 85 Similar and Opposite Words

informal

adjective

(ˌ)in-ˈfȯr-məl

Definition of informal

as in unconventional

not rigidly following established form, custom, or rules an informal meeting allowed everyone to get acquainted

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in casual

not designed to be worn only on special occasions chose an informal flowery dress

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in colloquial

used in or suitable for speech and not formal writing the use of informal language in a scholarly article is really inappropriate

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 informal That is why, after an unsuccessful informal appeal, Netflix, alongside other streaming services, has filed appeals before France’s Council of State. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 6 July 2026 The alliance grew out of an informal coalition that included organizations tied to Ananas Anam, Bananatex and Regenerate Fashion. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 7 July 2026 Many obtain them from unregulated online sellers and informal markets, often without medical supervision, reliable quality controls, or accurate dosing information. — Jerome Adams, STAT, 6 July 2026 Yet Kevin Trowbridge, who teaches strategic communication at Belmont University in Nashville, says an informal survey of his students found many are tuning in to Nashville Severe Weather. — ABC News, 7 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for informal

Recent Examples of Synonyms for informal

Adjective

Your unconventional ideas land better when people can experience them instead of only hearing about them.

— Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 5 July 2026
While seemingly an unconventional choice, Sandler, Swift and Kelce have been in each other's orbit for several years.

— Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 4 July 2026

Definition of unconventional

Adjective

Its name refers to the colloquial term once used for Papaya—paw-paw.

— Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 30 May 2026
The Solons name refers to an ancient Greek lawmaker, whose name later became a colloquial term for wise legislators, according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary.

— Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 29 May 2026

Definition of colloquial

Adjective

And yet Webster’s dictionary, and his earlier attempts at spelling reform, expressed a radical desire to forge an entirely new tongue based in the vernacular genius of the aspiring American people.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 July 2026
Because the alcohol drives the storytellers toward vernacular expression, these pieces can seem more alive and authentic, more relatable, than big-budget, big-screen productions.

— Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026