PopSugar: The Best Prom Dresses to Shop for Every Type of Aesthetic 1. of, according to, or following established or prescribed forms, conventions, etc: a formal document. 2.

Understanding the Context

characterized by observation of conventional forms of ceremony, behaviour, dress, etc: a formal dinner. 4. (Clothing & Fashion) suitable for occasions organized according to conventional ceremony: formal dress. 5.

Key Insights

The meaning of FORMAL is following or according with established form, custom, or rule. How to use formal in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Formal. FORMAL definition: being in accordance with the usual requirements, customs, etc.; conventional. See examples of formal used in a sentence.

Final Thoughts

Formal language is the language used esp. in writing in situations that are official and which is often more difficult than the language used in ordinary conversation. Formal speech or behaviour is very correct and serious rather than relaxed and friendly, and is used especially in official situations. He wrote a very formal letter of apology to Douglas. Business relationships are necessarily a bit more formal. Clothing designed for wear or use at occasions or events marked by elaborate ceremony or prescribed social observance: The formal attire included tuxedos and full-length gowns.

Being formal is all about being taken seriously. If you're invited to the White House, you'll want to make a good impression, so it's a good idea to adopt a generally formal demeanor.