formality

Everyday

1. Something that must be done because of rules or custom, often a small step that does not change the result: «just a formality». tree →
2. Polite, stiff and correct behaviour, as at an important ceremony. tree →
3. An official step, such as signing forms at a border. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life it describes paperwork and rules: «passport formalities». In stories, «it's only a formality» tells the reader that something is sure to happen. It also describes how stiff or relaxed an event is. Phrases: just a formality, a mere formality, without formality, legal formalities.

Examples

• Signing the form is just a formality; you are already in the team. tree →
• The formality of the wedding made the little boy nervous. tree →
• At the airport we went through the usual formalities. tree →
• Let's skip the formalities and start the game. tree →
• Asking Dad was a formality; he always says yes. tree →
• The headteacher spoke with great formality at assembly. tree →

Note

Plural: formalities. Adjective: formal; opposite: informality. «A mere formality» is a common phrase meaning something easy and certain.