German word

formal

Pronunciation

IPA/fɔʁˈmaːl/

Meaning

  • adjectiveformal

Example

Ein formaler Brief reicht.

A formal letter is enough.

Illustration for formal (formal)

More examples

Bei offiziellen Anlässen bleibt die Sprache oft formal.

On official occasions, the language often remains formal.

Core concept

A neat administrative frame around an action, with prescribed presentation outweighing personal involvement.

Common phrases

  • formales Verfahren

    formal procedure

  • formale Kriterien

    formal criteria

  • formale Vorschrift

    formal regulation

Similar words

formell: Matching expected social manners, formal dress, or ceremonial conduct.
offiziell: Authorized by a public body or stated in an official announcement.
geschäftlich: Appropriate for professional dealings, work, or business conduct.
förmlich: Marked by rigid politeness and close attention to outward form.

Definition in German

Nach festen Regeln oder Formen gestaltet; den äußeren Vorschriften entsprechend und nicht vorrangig persönlich oder inhaltlich begründet.

Word origin

The adjective formal traces back to Latin formalis 'relating to form', which is built on forma 'form'.

Usage tips

  • German formal often concerns form or procedure, while formell more commonly describes socially prescribed or courteous conduct, although the meanings can overlap.

Other meanings

  • officialadjective
  • formallyadverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Formalitätformalitynoun
  • Formalismusformalismnoun

Word lists with this word