Meaning & use
formal
Following established rules, conventions, or customs, especially in official or serious situations.
See it in a sentence
The invitation specified formal attire, so guests wore suits and evening gowns.
She sent a formal letter of complaint to the company's head office.
A note on using this word
Formal applies to language, clothing, and events alike, and often contrasts with informal or casual to signal how strictly social rules apply.
Words with a similar meaning
officialceremonial
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
informalcasual
Make it your own
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