Meaning & use

formally

adverb·Everyday

Last updated

in a way that follows established rules, conventions, or ceremony; officially.

See it in a sentence

The two nations formally signed the treaty at a public ceremony.

She was formally introduced to the board before the meeting began.

A note on using this word

Formally is easily confused with 'formerly' (meaning 'in the past'); the two words sound almost identical but have entirely different meanings.

Words with a similar meaning

officiallyceremonially

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

informallycasually

Make it your own

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