Meaning & use

formula

noun·Academic

A set of symbols or rules expressing a mathematical or scientific relationship.

See it in a sentence

Students memorized the formula for finding the area of a circle before the exam.

Chemists wrote out the formula to show how the two compounds would react.

A note on using this word

In everyday speech, "formula" can also mean a fixed method for achieving a result, as in "a formula for success."

Words with a similar meaning

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

Another way to use it

2. noun

A powdered or liquid substance given to babies as a substitute for breast milk.

The nurse showed the new parents how much formula to prepare for each feeding.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “formula”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.