B2noun 3K

Formation

🇬🇧 UK /["/fɔːˈmeɪʃn/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/fɔːrˈmeɪʃn/"]/

Meaning of Formation

the action of forming something; the process of being formed

In simple words: The process of creating something or the way something is arranged.

Formation in a sentence

• the formation of a new government
• evidence of recent star formation in the galaxy
• This dispute led to the formation of a new breakaway group.
• the top civil servants who are responsible for policy formation
• Massive rock formations rise abruptly some 1 500 feet above the canyon floor.
• formation flying
• aircraft flying in formation
• The team usually plays in a 4-4-2 formation.
• The troops advanced in battle formation.
• changing patterns of marriage and family formation

How to use Formation

Used in both technical contexts (like geology or military) and general contexts. Be careful not to confuse it with 'informal group', which is less specific.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'form' in 'formation' — like forming a shape or group.

Related words

Collocations with Formation

• policy
• lead to
• result in
• prevent
• cloud
• geological
• rock
• close
• tight
• battle
• flying
• in a… formation
• in formation

Synonyms for Formation

• arrangement
• configuration
• structure
• layout
• design

Opposites of Formation

• disarray
• disorganization

Common mistakes with Formation

• Confusing 'formation' with 'informational' as they sound similar.
• Using 'formation' as a verb; it's only a noun.
• Mixing up 'formation' with 'formation' in context, like an organized group vs. a shape.

Frequently asked questions about Formation

What does Formation mean?

The process of creating something or the way something is arranged.

What is the definition of Formation?

the action of forming something; the process of being formed

How do you use Formation in a sentence?

the formation of a new government

Can you give another example of Formation?

evidence of recent star formation in the galaxy

What are synonyms for Formation?

Common alternatives include arrangement, configuration, structure, layout, design.

What is the opposite of Formation?

Opposite meanings include disarray, disorganization.

What words go with Formation?

It commonly pairs with policy, lead to, result in, prevent, cloud, geological, rock, close, tight, battle, flying, in a… formation, in formation.

What are common mistakes when using Formation?

Confusing 'formation' with 'informational' as they sound similar. Using 'formation' as a verb; it's only a noun. Mixing up 'formation' with 'formation' in context, like an organized group vs. a shape.

How do you pronounce Formation?

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

When should I use Formation?

Used in both technical contexts (like geology or military) and general contexts. Be careful not to confuse it with 'informal group', which is less specific.

What CEFR level is Formation?

"Formation" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.