formally
/ˈfɔː.məl.i/ IELTSAcademic
adverb
In a serious or official way, not casually. It can also mean in a way that follows correct rules or accepted forms.
- She formally thanked the committee.
- The letter was formally approved.
- He was formally introduced to the team.
Adinary Nuance
Formally is often used when the situation is official, polite, or rule-based. It is close to “officially,” but formally focuses more on correct form and procedure. It is also different from “politely,” which is about good manners, not rules. In writing, formally can sound more precise than casually.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- một cách trang trọng
- Spanish
- formalmente
- Chinese
- 正式地
- Japanese
- 正式に
- Korean
- 공식적으로
Etymology
From Latin forma, meaning “shape” or “form,” through Old French and Middle English. The adverb form appeared in English later, from the adjective formal.
Common phrases
formally announcedformally recognizedformally introducedformally dressed
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between formally and officially?
- Formally means in the correct or official way. Officially means with authority or by an official decision.
- Is formally used in business writing?
- Yes. It is common in business and academic writing, especially for approvals, meetings, and introductions.
- Can formally describe clothes?
- Yes. It means clothes suitable for serious or special events.
- Is formally more polite than politely?
- Not exactly. Formally is about style or procedure, while politely is about good manners.