A2adjective formal 1K

Formal

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈfɔːml/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈfɔːrml/"]/

Meaning of Formal

very correct and suitable for official or important occasions

In simple words: A serious or official way of speaking or writing.

Formal in a sentence

• She wore a formal dress to the wedding.
• The formal meeting will start at 10 AM.
• He prefers formal language when writing reports.
• In some cultures, formal greetings are very important.
• The school has a formal dress code that students must follow.

How to use Formal

Use 'formal' for professional or official situations, like ceremonies or business meetings. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'formal' like a 'formal dress code'—something serious and proper.

Related words

Collocations with Formal

• be
• seem
• sound
• extremely
• fairly
• very
• be
• seem
• sound
• extremely
• fairly
• very
• be
• merely
• purely
• largely

Synonyms for Formal

• official
• ceremonial
• dignified
• sophisticated

Opposites of Formal

• informal
• casual

Common mistakes with Formal

• Using 'formal' in a casual context.
• Confusing 'formal' with 'informal'—they are opposites.
• Mispronouncing 'formal' as 'formul'.

Frequently asked questions about Formal

What does Formal mean?

A serious or official way of speaking or writing.

What is the definition of Formal?

very correct and suitable for official or important occasions

How do you use Formal in a sentence?

She wore a formal dress to the wedding.

Can you give another example of Formal?

The formal meeting will start at 10 AM.

What are synonyms for Formal?

Common alternatives include official, ceremonial, dignified, sophisticated.

What is the opposite of Formal?

Opposite meanings include informal, casual.

What words go with Formal?

It commonly pairs with be, seem, sound, extremely, fairly, very, be, seem, sound, extremely, fairly, very, be, merely, purely, largely.

What are common mistakes when using Formal?

Using 'formal' in a casual context. Confusing 'formal' with 'informal'—they are opposites. Mispronouncing 'formal' as 'formul'.

How do you pronounce Formal?

US: /["/ˈfɔːrml/"]/, UK: /["/ˈfɔːml/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Formal formal or informal?

"Formal" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Formal?

Use 'formal' for professional or official situations, like ceremonies or business meetings. Avoid in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Formal?

"Formal" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.