Spanish word

formal

Pronunciation

IPA/foɾˈmal/

Meaning

  • adjectiveformal

Example

Es importante ser formal cuando conoces a los padres de tu pareja.

It is important to be formal when you meet your partner's parents.

Illustration for formal (formal)

More examples

Para la entrevista debes llevar ropa formal.

For the interview you should wear formal attire.

Core concept

Polite distance marked by titles and set phrases.

Common phrases

  • ropa formal

    formal attire

  • reunión formal

    formal meeting

  • trato formal

    formal demeanor

Similar words

cortés: Expresses considerate, friendly politeness through kind words and attentive manners.
educado: Behaves according to social etiquette and expected manners in everyday situations.
respetuoso: Shows deference and regard for others through respectful words and actions.

Definition in Spanish

Que muestra cortesía y respeto en el trato o en el lenguaje mediante fórmulas, títulos o un registro más distante.

Word origin

Derived from Latin formalis (from forma 'form' and the suffix -alis), originally 'following established forms', which led to use for respectful, rule-bound speech and conduct.

Usage tips

  • Spanish formality is signaled by pronouns and fixed formulas (titles, usted, buenos días, etc.) rather than only by fancier vocabulary, so tone and grammar indicate respect.

Other meanings

  • officialadjective
  • ceremonialadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word