formaladj.n.

Brit.

/ˈfɔːml/, U.S.

/ˈfɔrm(ə)l/

Etymology: < Latin formālis, < forma form n.: see -al suffix¹. Compare French formel.

A. adj.

1. Of or pertaining to form n., in various senses.

a. metaphorical. Pertaining to the form or constitutive essence of a thing; essential. Opposed to material. So formal cause (see cause n. 5).

ΘΚΠ

the world > existence and causation > existence > intrinsicality or inherence > essence or intrinsic nature > [adjective] > essential or constituting the essence

formalc1386

substantial1422

essential1546

radical1562

constitutive1610

essentifical1656

constituent1659

vital1659

qualifying1704

constitutional1750

staminal1798

substantive1858

the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > metaphysics > ontology > [adjective] > of or relating to entities or existence of entities > of form or essence

formalc1386

c1386 G. Chaucer Melibeus ⁋433 The cause material been the fyve woundes of thy doghter. The cause formal is the manere of hir werkinge.

c1430 Art Nombryng (1922) 1 Sothely .2. manere of nombres ben notifiede; Materialle, as nombre is vnitees gadrede to gedres; Formalle, as nombre is a colleccione of vnitees.

1447 O. Bokenham Lyvys Seyntys (1835) Introd. 1 The more clere That it may be the formal cause [He] Settyth in dew ordre clause be clause.

1587 Sir P. Sidney & A. Golding tr. P. de Mornay Trewnesse Christian Relig. ii. 26 They be good, as in respect of their bare being; and euill, as in respect that they forgo their formal being, that is to say, their goodnesse.

1628 T. Spencer Art of Logick 55 Man is..fit to loue the knowne good..this fitnes floweth from his reasonable soule or formall being.

1669 W. Holder Elem. Speech 22 Of Letters the Material part is Breath and Voice; the Formal is constituted by the Motions and Figure of the Organs of Speech affecting Breath with a peculiar sound, by which each Letter is discriminated.

a1716 R. South Serm. Several Occasions (1744) X. 37 For deceit is the formal, constituent reason of hypocrisy.

1814 H. F. Cary tr. Dante Vision III. ii. 71 Different virtues needs must be the fruits Of formal principles.

1827 R. Whately Elem. Logic ii. v. §3 Whatever Term can be affirmed of several things, must express either their whole essence..or a part of their essence, (viz. either the material part, which is called the Genus, or the formal and distinguishing part, which is called Differentia).

†b. Pertaining to the specific form of an animal or plant. Of a seed or germ: Endowed with a principle of form. Obsolete.

ΘΚΠ

the world > life > biology > biological processes > procreation or reproduction > reproductive substances or cells > [adjective] > spore

formalc1400

sporular1819

zoosporous1845

zoosporic1854

polysporous1858

polyspored1882

sporulating1897

sporulated1898

polyzoic1901

zygosporic1906

polyspore1959

propagular1967

the world > space > shape > [adjective] > endowed with a principle of form

formal1605

c1400 Lanfranc's Cirurg. 21 Þe foormal vertu which almyȝty god haþ ȝeue to þe maris ordeyneþ and diuidid euery partie of þese spermes..til þat þe child be born.

1605 F. Bacon Of Aduancem. Learning ii. sig. Ee3^v Being as a plant that commeth of the lust of the earth, without a formal seede.

a1676 M. Hale Primitive Originat. Mankind (1677) iii. vi. 277 Although it be admitted that Insects and spontaneè orta do or may arise from a Semen or Principle that is not univocal or formal.

c. Pertaining to the outward form, shape, or appearance (of a material object); also, in immaterial sense, pertaining to the form, arrangement, external qualities (e.g. of a work of art, a composition, etc.). †Also, occasionally of knowledge: Theoretical as opposed to practical.

ΘΚΠ

the world > space > shape > [adjective]

shapelya1387

moduled1621

figural1650

formal1655

the mind > mental capacity > knowledge > branch of knowledge > [adjective] > concerned with theory

theoreticala1500

theorical?a1560

formal1655

1655 G. S. in S. Hartlib Reformed Common-wealth Bees 27 Honey..out of which they [the Bees] doe separate a more fat substance, which they also transmute into Wax, with a formal transmutation.

c1660 J. Evelyn Diary anno 1639 (1955) II. 22 Musick, in which I afterwards ariv'd to some formal knowledge, though to small perfection of hand.

1837 W. Whewell Hist. Inductive Sci. I. v. 358 The distinction of formal and physical astronomy.

a1853 F. W. Robertson Serm. (1872) 3rd Ser. iii. 39 All living unity is spiritual, not formal.

1860 J. Ruskin Mod. Painters V. 158 Invention Formal, otherwise and most commonly called technical composition.

d. Logic. Concerned with the form, as distinguished from the matter, of reasoning. formal concept [translating German formaler begriff] : a concept of logic, free from the descriptive content that would restrict it to any particular subject matter (see quots.); formal implication (see quots.).

ΘΚΠ

the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > logic > [adjective] > relating to systems or characteristics of

habitual1526

material1628

systematic1666

regulative1798

methodological1849

formala1856

grammatical1874

multivalued1934

fuzzy1964

the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > logic > predicate or propositional logic > [noun] > implication

logical implication1887

prehensiveness1897

formal implication1903

material implication1903

implication1906

strict implication1912

entailment1933

the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > logic > predicate or propositional logic > [noun] > mathematical or symbolic logic > elements of

logical form1840

formal concept1922

a1856 W. Hamilton Lect. Metaphysics (1860) IV. xxvii. 64 The harmony of thought with the form of thought is..Formal Truth.

a1856 W. Hamilton Lect. Metaphysics (1860) IV. App. 231 The doctrine..which expounds the laws by which our scientific procedure should be governed, in so far as these lie in the forms of thought, or in the conditions of the mind itself..may be called Formal, or Subjective, or Abstract, or Pure Logic.

1864 F. C. Bowen Treat. Logic ii. 42 All this, however, is but the elimination of Formal error.

1870 W. S. Jevons Elem. Lessons Logic vii. 69 It is no part of formal Logic to teach us how to interpret the meanings of sentences.

1903 B. Russell Princ. Math. §15 The relation of formal implication..holds between propositional functions when the one implies the other for all values of the variable.

1922 C. K. Ogden et al. tr. L. Wittgenstein Tractatus 4. 126 In the sense in which we speak of formal properties we can now speak also of formal concepts. (I introduce this expression in order to make clear the confusion of formal concepts with proper concepts which runs through the whole of the old logic.)

1932 C. I. Lewis & C. H. Langford Symbolic Logic 101 The relation of formal implication is transitive, like material implication.

1939 G. Ryle in Mind XLVIII. 149 To use the language of Kant and Wittgenstein, we were trying to treat formal concepts as if they were ‘proper’ or material concepts.

1939 G. Ryle in Mind XLVIII. 151 A formal concept is one which may have a place in a proposition about any subject-matter you please, and some..will be present in any proposition... ‘Not’, ‘exists’, ‘some’, ‘other’,..and many others are not peculiar to any special topics.

1955 A. N. Prior Formal Logic 197 The Russellian ‘formal’ implication is simply universal material implication.

1965 E. J. Lemmon Beginning Logic iv. 154 The term ‘formal implication’ was coined by Russell to describe the universal quantification over a material implication: i.e. a proposition of the form ‘(x) (Fx→Gx)’.

e. Of or pertaining to customary form or conventionality.

ΘΚΠ

the world > action or operation > behaviour > a standard of conduct > [adjective] > conforming > relating to established rules

ceremonious1597

formal1712

etiquettical1789

etiquetted1861

1712 A. Pope To Young Lady in Misc. Poems 140 Still in Constraint your suff'ring Sex remains, Or bound in formal, or in real Chains.

2. Characterized by, or regarded according to, its form; that is (so and so) in respect of form.

a. Theology. formal sin: one which is such in the full sense, as including not merely the outward act which is forbidden, but the circumstances which constitute it as sinful, e.g. evil intention. So formal schism, formal schismatic, etc. Opposed to material sin, etc.

ΘΚΠ

society > faith > aspects of faith > sectarianism > schism > [noun]

schismacy1387

schism1390

scission1443

segregationa1555

concision1557

scissure1566

formal schism1641

secession1660

society > faith > aspects of faith > spirituality > sin > kinds of sin > [noun] > formal

formal sin1641

1641 J. Jackson True Evangelical Temper ii. 92 Therefore was there a positive Law..not to seeth the Kid in the mothers milke. Not that there was any direct, or formal sin, in that manner of Cookery.

1656 J. Bramhall Replic. to Bishop of Chalcedon i. 66 Cannot God pardon formall, much more materiall Schism.

1656 J. Bramhall Replic. to Bishop of Chalcedon ix. 341 They are not formall, but only materiall Schismaticks.

†b. That is such in essence; strictly so called, essential. Obsolete.

ΘΚΠ

the world > existence and causation > existence > intrinsicality or inherence > essence or intrinsic nature > [adjective] > that is such in the absolute or highest sense

essentialc1340

absolutec1454

formal1691

1691 J. Ray Wisdom of God 172 The bottom of the Eye, where the formal Organ of Vision is situate.

†c. That is such merely in outward form or appearance. Obsolete.

ΘΚΠ

the world > physical sensation > sight and vision > thing seen > appearance or aspect > [adjective] > mere outward appearance

utter?c1225

outwarda1382

superficial1531

external1564

formala1586

surface1828

apparitional1899

a1586 Sir P. Sidney Apol. Poetrie (1595) sig. D4^v Pretty Allegories, stealing vnder the formall tales of Beastes.

1633 Earl of Manchester Al Mondo: Contemplatio Mortis (rev. ed.) 146 Formall penitents will easily part with so much of their sinne as may abate nothing of their profit.

1634 J. Canne Necessitie of Separation iv. 209 The formall Protestants in England.

1737 H. Bracken Farriery Improved xxxiv. 488 It is a Kind of formal Leprosy which often begins in the Neck, Main, or Tail.

†d. Of quoted statements: Exact with regard to form. Obsolete.

ΘΚΠ

the mind > mental capacity > knowledge > conformity with what is known, truth > truthfulness, veracity > [adjective] > following original exactly > in form

formalc1549

formular1791

c1549 E. Bonner in J. Foxe Actes & Monuments (1563) 708/1 What were the formall wordes, or at the least wise in substance that I the sayde bishop then vtterid.

a. That is according to recognized forms, or to the rules of art or law. Formerly occasionally const. †to.

ΘΚΠ

the world > relative properties > order > agreement, harmony, or congruity > conformity to or with a pattern, etc. > [adjective] > conforming to a standard rule > conforming to rules of art or law

formal1390

grammatical1846

1390 J. Gower Confessio Amantis III. 89 The wise man accompteth After the formal proprete Of algorismes a, be, ce.

c1425 Wyntoun Cron. ix. Prol. 56 Now Modyr of þe Makare..To fair formale Fyne my labouris þow lede.

1526 W. Bonde Pylgrimage of Perfection iii. sig. KKKviii^v The fourthe condicion of the prayer of the clene hert is, that it muste be formall: that is to say, it must be formed & ordred after the order of charite.

1529 T. More Dialogue Heresyes C ij b A sylogysme & resonynge, almoste as formall as is the argumente.

1597 T. Morley Plaine & Easie Introd. Musicke 74 It followeth to speake of a formal closing without a dis-cord or Cadence.

1602 S. Daniel Trag. Philotas iv. ii. sig. E He first must to his accusation pleade, And haue his triall, formall to our lawes.

1622 G. de Malynes Consuetudo 394 You may not say in the Bill, It may please you to pay..and most men will not vse the words (Make him good Payment) but the fewer words the more formall.

1723 D. Defoe Hist. Col. Jack (ed. 2) 277 No one Place..could have held out a formal Siege.

1749 H. Fielding Tom Jones II. vi. vii. 269 (heading) A Picture of formal Courtship in Miniature, as it always ought to be drawn.

†b. Made in proper form, regular, complete. Also in familiar use, ‘regular’, unmistakable. Obsolete.

ΘΚΠ

the world > relative properties > order > agreement, harmony, or congruity > conformity to or with a pattern, etc. > [adjective] > conforming to a standard rule

rightOE

justc1384

verya1425

orderly1542

ruled1551

normatic1598

formal1635

solemn1639

regular1643

mathematical1776

reglementary1800

rule-right1877

the mind > mental capacity > belief > uncertainty, doubt, hesitation > absence of doubt, confidence > assured fact, certainty > [adjective]

wislyc1000

sickera1225

firm1377

unfailingc1400

decided1439

suredc1450

sure1470

infirmat1487

delivered1499

fast and sure1528

undeceivablea1535

undoubteda1535

certainc1540

true (also good, sure) as touch1590

constant1611

positivea1616

square1632

formal1635

unapocryphal1644

inconditional1646

inconditionate1654

undeceitful1673

unshakeable1677

unproblematic1683

unprecarious1688

unerring1697

safe1788

hard1791

unproblematical1792

decisive1800

dead-on1889

hands down1900

1635 Earl of Strafford Let. 9 Apr. (1739) I. 410 An Indisposition which hath hindred me from writing..a formal Fit of the Gout.

1673 J. Evelyn Mem. (1857) I. 89 We went..to see the formal and formidable camp on Blackheath, raised to invade Holland.

1684 London Gaz. No. 1953/1 Though the Lower Town has no other defence than a single Wall, yet his Highness found it convenient to make formal approaches to it.

1719 D. Defoe Life Robinson Crusoe 247 As there was a Door, or Entrance there into my Cave, I made a formal fram'd Door Case, and a Door to it of Boards.

†c. Of a story, etc.: Elaborately constructed, circumstantial. Obsolete.

ΘΚΠ

society > leisure > the arts > literature > prose > narrative or story > types of narrative or story generally > [adjective] > other specific attributes

formal1592

tendency1838

unartistic1854

happy ever afterwards1858

ben trovato1883

middle-length1928

hard-boiled1929

stream of consciousness1931

plutographic1985

1592 W. Warner Albions Eng. (rev. ed.) vii. xxxv. 151 At full he could his lessons, and a formale lie would tell.

1662 H. More Gen. Coll. Philos. Writings (1712) Pref. Gen. 23 Such was that formal story of his casting incense on the Altar of an Idol.

1663 S. Butler Hudibras: First Pt. i. ii. 74 And never coyn a formal lye on't, To make the Knight o'ercome the Giant.

1709 J. Swift Let. conc. Sacramental Test 4 When the Earl of P—ke was in Ireland..a formal Story was very gravely carried to his Excellency.

†4.

a. Regular, having a definite principle, methodical.

ΘΚΠ

the world > relative properties > order > [adjective] > of or relating to a system > systematic

formal1413

methodical1570

methodic1620

systematical1686

systematic1722

systemical1724

scientific?1757

1413 Pilgr. Sowle (1859) i. iii. 4 The ouer~most of the erthe was moost clere, and alwey the clerenesse amenussing dounward by verray formal processe.

1701 N. Rowe Ambitious Step-mother v. ii. 2874 Formal Justice that severely strikes, And in an instant is serene and calm.

b. Of feature, stature, etc.: Regular, shapely.

ΘΚΠ

the mind > attention and judgement > beauty > beauty of shape or form > [adjective] > specifically of persons

featous1340

well-featureda1460

formal1525

featured1567

trim1568

1525 Ld. Berners tr. J. Froissart Cronycles II. clxiv. [clx.] 455 Therle of Foiz..was a goodly prince and of a formall stature.

1548 Hall's Vnion: Edward IV f. cxciij^v She was a woman more of formal countenaunce, then of excellent beautie, but yet of such beautie & fauor that [etc.].

1576 A. Fleming tr. G. Macropedius in Panoplie Epist. 377 Every joynte and limme..verie formall, and passing hansome.

c. Normal in intellect, sane. Obsolete.

ΘΚΠ

the world > health and disease > mental health > [adjective]

in (one's right) witc1000

wittyc1000

wisec1290

well-tempered1340

reasonablec1400

safe1402

perfectc1440

well in (also of) one's witsa1450

right in one's geara1500

well-advised1532

sensed1549

unmad1570

well-advised1585

rational1598

solid1606

in one's (right) senses1613

formala1616

of (in) disposing mind or memory1628

compos mentis1631

righta1638

well-hinged1649

well-balanced1652

spacked1673

clear-headed1709

sane1721

unfantastic1794

unmaddened1797

pas si bête1840

lucid1843

unfantastical1862

clothed and in one's right mind1873

right-minded1876

ungiddy1904

clear1950

a1616 W. Shakespeare Comedy of Errors (1623) v. i. 106 With wholsome sirrups, drugges, and holy prayers To make of him a formall man againe.

a. Done or made with the forms recognized as ensuring validity; explicit and definite, as opposed to what is matter of tacit understanding.

ΘΚΠ

the world > relative properties > order > agreement, harmony, or congruity > conformity to or with a pattern, etc. > [adjective] > conforming to a standard rule > conforming to prescribed forms

formable1479

formal1547

formed1702

1547 A. Borde Breuiary of Helthe i. Preamble f. v Let him loke to it and make a formal wyl or testament.

1586 in T. Thomson Acts & Proc. Kirk of Scotl. (1840) II. 665 It hes power to excommunicat the obstinat, formall proces being led.

1622 F. Bacon Advt. Holy Warre in Misc. Wks. (1629) 127 As there are Formall and written Leagues, Respective to certaine Enemies; So is there a Naturall and Tacite Confederation, amongst all Men against the common Enemy of Humane Society.

1626 King Charles I Let. in H. Ellis Orig. Lett. Eng. Hist. (1824) 1st Ser. III. 249 For Blenuill he hes yet but made his formale demands concerning the Ships.

1771 ‘Junius’ Stat Nominis Umbra (1772) II. lxii. 291 Nor has there ever been a formal decision against them in any of the superior courts.

1838 C. Thirlwall Hist. Greece (new ed.) II. xiv. 228 Cleomenes, without waiting for a formal commission, immediately repaired to Ægina.

1856 J. A. Froude Hist. Eng. (1858) II. vii. 129 Both the king and the archbishop had disobeyed a formal inhibition.

b. Predicatively of a law: Of unmistakable import, decisive. [A Gallicism.]

ΘΚΠ

society > law > [adjective] > various epithets applied to laws

vagabondc1485

strait1503

strict1578

unrelaxable1615

sanguinary1625

standard1660

formal1701

supplementary1714

eludible1735

organic1831

antinomic1849

loopy1856

antinomical1877

contravenable1880

violable1885

nexal1886

entrenched1920

hard1935

1701 tr. J. Le Clerc Lives Primitive Fathers 260 He could not be transferred to Constantinople, without breaking the Fifteenth Canon of the Council of Nice, which is Formal thereupon.

a. Connected with or accompanied by form or ceremony; ceremonial, ‘state’.

ΘΚΠ

the mind > emotion > pride > ostentation > ceremony or formality > [adjective] > full of or accompanied by ceremony or formality

solemnc1369

solemned1423

solenc1460

solemnel?1473

formal1596

set1606

ceremoniousa1616

circumstantial1710

full dress1776

1596 W. Warner Albions Eng. (rev. ed.) xi. lxvii. 285 Scarce Cleopatras Anthony was feasted with more cheere..than Ienkinson was heere. In formall Hawking, Hunting, Chace, not them came Tristram neere.

1841 M. Elphinstone Hist. India I. iii. xi. 355 The most general practice on formal occasions is [etc.].

1875 W. S. Hayward Love against World 3 It will save the squire a formal call.

†b. Of apparel: Ceremonial, proper to a dignity or office. Cf. formality n. 10. Obsolete.

ΘΚΠ

the world > textiles and clothing > clothing > types or styles of clothing > [adjective] > for specific purpose > official or ceremonial wear

formalc1593

set1676

full dress1761

c1593 in J. Raine Descr. Anc. Monuments Church of Durham (1842) 43 [Pictures of bps. etc.] most largly and sumptuously sett fourth in there formall apparell.

7. That is merely matter of form:

a. Done or adopted for the sake of form or convention; perfunctory; having the form without the spirit or substance.

ΘΚΠ

the world > relative properties > order > agreement, harmony, or congruity > conformity to or with a pattern, etc. > [adjective] > conforming to a standard rule > conforming to prescribed forms > merely

fashional?1607

fashionable1608

fashionarya1640

formal1649

pro forma1823

formalistic1856

formalist1900

1649 J. Milton Tenure of Kings 41 A formal preachment huddl'd up at the od hours of a..lazy week.

1676 J. Dryden Aureng-Zebe ii. 29 Of formal duty make no more thy boast.

1707 I. Watts Hymns & Spiritual Songs ii. 110 In vain we tune our formal songs, In vain we strive to rise.

b. That is matter of routine only, not of substantial import.

ΘΚΠ

the world > action or operation > behaviour > customary or habitual mode of behaviour > [adjective] > routine

routine1744

routinary1807

formal1818

routinish1830

jog-jog1837

clockworky1864

groove-like1902

1818 W. Cruise Digest Laws Eng. Real Prop. (ed. 2) IV. 256 This doctrine..does not extend to mere formal acts.

8. Of persons, their manners and actions: Rigorously observant of forms; precise; prim in attire; ceremonious. Chiefly in reproachful use: Unduly precise or ceremonious, stiff.

ΘΚΠ

the world > action or operation > behaviour > good behaviour > [adjective] > seemly or proper > strictly proper

nicec1387

formal?1518

point-devicea1529

ceremonious1553

ceremonial1579

squarec1590

square-toeda1797

wiggy1817

nicey1859

uptight1969

the world > action or operation > behaviour > good behaviour > courtesy > [adjective] > formally

formal?1518

the world > action or operation > behaviour > bad behaviour > discourtesy > [adjective] > not affable

strange1338

estrangec1374

formal?1518

cold1557

squeamish1561

icy1567

buckrama1589

repulsive1598

starched1600

unaffable1603

stiff1608

withdrawing1611

reserved1612

aloof1639

cool1641

uncordial1643

inaffable1656

staunch1659

standfra1683

distant1710

starcha1716

distancing1749

pokerish1779

buckramed1793

angular1808

easeless1811

touch-me-not1817

starchy1824

standoffish1826

offish1827

poker-backed1830

standoff1837

stiffish1840

chilly1841

unapproachable1848

hedgehoggy1866

sticky1882

hard-to-get1899

stand-away1938

princesse lointaine1957

?1518 A. Barclay Fyfte Eglog sig. A^v Amyntas was formalle, and propre in his gere.

1597 W. Shakespeare Richard III iii. i. 82 Thus like the formall vice iniquity, I morallize two meanings in one word.

1612 F. Bacon Ess. (new ed.) 176 Especially they [sc. Ceremonies] bee not to be omitted to strangers, & formall natures.

a1616 W. Shakespeare Taming of Shrew (1623) iii. i. 59 Are you so formall sir?

1679 W. Penn Addr. Protestants (1692) i. vii. 27 He is reported Formal, that will not be Rude to Sacred Things.

c1689 M. Prior Ode: While Blooming Youth 25 Forc'd compliments and formal bows.

1693 Humours & Conversat. Town 125 The distant Justice of Peace, his formal Spouse, and Daughters.

1711 J. Addison Spectator No. 119. ¶5 To make Conversation too stiff, formal and precise.

1749 Ld. Chesterfield Let. 12 Sept. (1932) (modernized text) IV. 1396 All the evening in formal fine company.

1853 E. Bulwer-Lytton My Novel I. ii. vii. 129 More familiar with his master than we formal English permit our domestics to be.

a. Marked by extreme or excessive regularity or symmetry; stiff or rigid in design; wanting in ease or freedom of outline or arrangement.

ΘΚΠ

the world > space > shape > symmetry or regularity > [adjective] > excessively regular

formal1609

1609 W. Shakespeare Louers Complaint in Sonnets sig. K2 Her haire nor loose nor ti'd in formall plat.

1753 W. Hogarth Anal. Beauty vi. 34 When any part of dress has not the excuse of fitness or propriety for its uniformity of parts, the ladies always call it formal.

1807 Salmagundi 4 Apr. 136 Your plaited shirts, Your formal bag-wigs.

1873 W. Black Princess of Thule xxi. 353 Small windows with formal red curtains.

1874 L. Stephen Hours in Libr. 1st Ser. 148 Pope..was one of the first..to break through the old formal school of gardening.

b. In immaterial sense: Having a ‘set’ or rigorously methodical aspect or character.

ΘΚΠ

the world > relative properties > order > [adjective] > of or relating to a system > systematic > rigorously

formal1757

1757 G. Shelvocke, Jr. Shelvocke's Voy. round World (ed. 2) xiv. 423 It would, perhaps, be too formal to enter upon a discourse concerning their government.

1847 J. R. McCulloch Descr. & Statist. Acct. Brit. Empire (ed. 3) II. v. i. 367 Formal harangues of this sort are about the least efficient of all the modes in which information can be conveyed to the student.

1865 G. Grote Plato I. Pref. p. v The dramatic manifestation of Hellenic philosophy—as contrasted with the formal and systematising.

B. n.

A thing that is formal; esp. (originally and chiefly U.S.) (an) evening dress; an engagement at which such dress is worn.

ΘΚΠ

the world > existence and causation > existence > intrinsicality or inherence > essence or intrinsic nature > [noun] > essential elements

substantialsa1398

internala1594

formal1605

fundamental1617

materialsa1631

essentials1663

hardtack1888

basic1934

funda1989

the world > textiles and clothing > clothing > types or styles of clothing > [noun] > for specific purpose > evening

evening dress1782

evening wear1800

wampum and warpaint1876

formal1941

the world > textiles and clothing > clothing > types or styles of clothing > clothing for body or trunk (and limbs) > [noun] > dress, robe, or gown > types of > for specific purpose > for evening wear

nightgown1700

evening gown1814

robe de style1909

formal1941

society > leisure > social event > type of social event > [noun] > at which evening dress is worn

formal1946

1605 T. Tymme tr. J. Du Chesne Pract. Chymicall & Hermeticall Physicke ii. iv. 14 Simples may be distinguished into those things which are simple formes, and into those which are simple matters; or into those things which are simply formals, and into those which are simply materials. Those things which are simply formall are astrall and spirituall.

1875 W. D. Whitney Life & Growth Lang. v. 95 They are etherealized formals.

1941 Amer. Speech 16 96 They are all right for casuals or spectator wear, but I'd get that formal in either Waltz Blue or Coronado Coral.

1946 New Yorker 28 Sept. 27/2 The neighboring children were strange, with..their queer talk of dates, and formals, and going steady.

1948 New Yorker 27 Mar. 29/1 The initiates wore evening dresses (formals, formals, Emily reminded herself to say).

1961 M. Beadle These Ruins are Inhabited (1963) v. 71 If a dinner invitation does not specify ‘informal’, guests assume that black ties will be worn. Young ladies then wear short formals, and old ladies wear floor-length evening dresses.

1968 ‘A. York’ Predator vi. 86 She looked sufficiently virginal to be attending her first formal.

Compounds

formal operations n. Psychology (in Piaget's theory) those mental processes characteristic of the fourth and final stage of cognitive development, in which an individual is capable of abstract thought.

ΘΚΠ

the mind > mental capacity > psychology > developmental psychology > logical mental activity > [noun] > means of structuring possibility

formal operations1963

1963 J. H. Flavell Devel. Psychol. J. Piaget iii. 86 The period of formal operations (11–15)... The adolescent can deal effectively not only with the reality before him..but also with the world of pure possibility.

1980 Ann. Rev. Sociol. 6 289 An individual's participation in the modern social world, for example, requires a transition from Piaget's concrete operations to his formal operations stage.

1985 Current Anthropol. 26 619/1 11 yrs. Formal-operations period: Hypothetical-deductive reasoning based on holding variables constant and systematic combinations.

Draft additions March 2014

formal language n. chiefly Mathematics, Logic, and Computing a set of strings of symbols formed according to some rule or rules which determine how the symbols in a given collection can be combined.

ΚΠ

1926 Jrnl. Philos. Stud. 1 183 The configuration and transformation are to be described in formal language, which employs very definite physical concepts and makes use of mathematical symbols.

1959 Proc. Internat. Conf. Sci. Information 1958 II. 1559 Special formal languages used in programming are now so flexible and powerful that they may be much better adapted to the discussion of search strategies than either natural languages or the formal languages of pre-programming mathematics.

2013 Spectator (Nexis) 16 Sept. 1 Symbolic Reasoning refers to any subject that uses a formal language to describe the disciplinary content.

This entry has not yet been fully updated (first published 1897; most recently modified version published online June 2022).

单词	formal
释义	formaladj.n. Brit. /ˈfɔːml/, U.S. /ˈfɔrm(ə)l/ Etymology: < Latin formālis, < forma form n.: see -al suffix¹. Compare French formel. A. adj. 1. Of or pertaining to form n., in various senses. a. metaphorical. Pertaining to the form or constitutive essence of a thing; essential. Opposed to material. So formal cause (see cause n. 5). ΘΚΠ the world > existence and causation > existence > intrinsicality or inherence > essence or intrinsic nature > [adjective] > essential or constituting the essence formalc1386 substantial1422 essential1546 radical1562 constitutive1610 essentifical1656 constituent1659 vital1659 qualifying1704 constitutional1750 staminal1798 substantive1858 the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > metaphysics > ontology > [adjective] > of or relating to entities or existence of entities > of form or essence formalc1386 c1386 G. Chaucer Melibeus ⁋433 The cause material been the fyve woundes of thy doghter. The cause formal is the manere of hir werkinge. c1430 Art Nombryng (1922) 1 Sothely .2. manere of nombres ben notifiede; Materialle, as nombre is vnitees gadrede to gedres; Formalle, as nombre is a colleccione of vnitees. 1447 O. Bokenham Lyvys Seyntys (1835) Introd. 1 The more clere That it may be the formal cause [He] Settyth in dew ordre clause be clause. 1587 Sir P. Sidney & A. Golding tr. P. de Mornay Trewnesse Christian Relig. ii. 26 They be good, as in respect of their bare being; and euill, as in respect that they forgo their formal being, that is to say, their goodnesse. 1628 T. Spencer Art of Logick 55 Man is..fit to loue the knowne good..this fitnes floweth from his reasonable soule or formall being. 1669 W. Holder Elem. Speech 22 Of Letters the Material part is Breath and Voice; the Formal is constituted by the Motions and Figure of the Organs of Speech affecting Breath with a peculiar sound, by which each Letter is discriminated. a1716 R. South Serm. Several Occasions (1744) X. 37 For deceit is the formal, constituent reason of hypocrisy. 1814 H. F. Cary tr. Dante Vision III. ii. 71 Different virtues needs must be the fruits Of formal principles. 1827 R. Whately Elem. Logic ii. v. §3 Whatever Term can be affirmed of several things, must express either their whole essence..or a part of their essence, (viz. either the material part, which is called the Genus, or the formal and distinguishing part, which is called Differentia). †b. Pertaining to the specific form of an animal or plant. Of a seed or germ: Endowed with a principle of form. Obsolete. ΘΚΠ the world > life > biology > biological processes > procreation or reproduction > reproductive substances or cells > [adjective] > spore formalc1400 sporular1819 zoosporous1845 zoosporic1854 polysporous1858 polyspored1882 sporulating1897 sporulated1898 polyzoic1901 zygosporic1906 polyspore1959 propagular1967 the world > space > shape > [adjective] > endowed with a principle of form formal1605 c1400 Lanfranc's Cirurg. 21 Þe foormal vertu which almyȝty god haþ ȝeue to þe maris ordeyneþ and diuidid euery partie of þese spermes..til þat þe child be born. 1605 F. Bacon Of Aduancem. Learning ii. sig. Ee3^v Being as a plant that commeth of the lust of the earth, without a formal seede. View more context for this quotation a1676 M. Hale Primitive Originat. Mankind (1677) iii. vi. 277 Although it be admitted that Insects and spontaneè orta do or may arise from a Semen or Principle that is not univocal or formal. c. Pertaining to the outward form, shape, or appearance (of a material object); also, in immaterial sense, pertaining to the form, arrangement, external qualities (e.g. of a work of art, a composition, etc.). †Also, occasionally of knowledge: Theoretical as opposed to practical. ΘΚΠ the world > space > shape > [adjective] shapelya1387 moduled1621 figural1650 formal1655 the mind > mental capacity > knowledge > branch of knowledge > [adjective] > concerned with theory theoreticala1500 theorical?a1560 formal1655 1655 G. S. in S. Hartlib Reformed Common-wealth Bees 27 Honey..out of which they [the Bees] doe separate a more fat substance, which they also transmute into Wax, with a formal transmutation. c1660 J. Evelyn Diary anno 1639 (1955) II. 22 Musick, in which I afterwards ariv'd to some formal knowledge, though to small perfection of hand. 1837 W. Whewell Hist. Inductive Sci. I. v. 358 The distinction of formal and physical astronomy. a1853 F. W. Robertson Serm. (1872) 3rd Ser. iii. 39 All living unity is spiritual, not formal. 1860 J. Ruskin Mod. Painters V. 158 Invention Formal, otherwise and most commonly called technical composition. d. Logic. Concerned with the form, as distinguished from the matter, of reasoning. formal concept [translating German formaler begriff] : a concept of logic, free from the descriptive content that would restrict it to any particular subject matter (see quots.); formal implication (see quots.). ΘΚΠ the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > logic > [adjective] > relating to systems or characteristics of habitual1526 material1628 systematic1666 regulative1798 methodological1849 formala1856 grammatical1874 multivalued1934 fuzzy1964 the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > logic > predicate or propositional logic > [noun] > implication logical implication1887 prehensiveness1897 formal implication1903 material implication1903 implication1906 strict implication1912 entailment1933 the mind > mental capacity > philosophy > logic > predicate or propositional logic > [noun] > mathematical or symbolic logic > elements of logical form1840 formal concept1922 a1856 W. Hamilton Lect. Metaphysics (1860) IV. xxvii. 64 The harmony of thought with the form of thought is..Formal Truth. a1856 W. Hamilton Lect. Metaphysics (1860) IV. App. 231 The doctrine..which expounds the laws by which our scientific procedure should be governed, in so far as these lie in the forms of thought, or in the conditions of the mind itself..may be called Formal, or Subjective, or Abstract, or Pure Logic. 1864 F. C. Bowen Treat. Logic ii. 42 All this, however, is but the elimination of Formal error. 1870 W. S. Jevons Elem. Lessons Logic vii. 69 It is no part of formal Logic to teach us how to interpret the meanings of sentences. 1903 B. Russell Princ. Math. §15 The relation of formal implication..holds between propositional functions when the one implies the other for all values of the variable. 1922 C. K. Ogden et al. tr. L. Wittgenstein Tractatus 4. 126 In the sense in which we speak of formal properties we can now speak also of formal concepts. (I introduce this expression in order to make clear the confusion of formal concepts with proper concepts which runs through the whole of the old logic.) 1932 C. I. Lewis & C. H. Langford Symbolic Logic 101 The relation of formal implication is transitive, like material implication. 1939 G. Ryle in Mind XLVIII. 149 To use the language of Kant and Wittgenstein, we were trying to treat formal concepts as if they were ‘proper’ or material concepts. 1939 G. Ryle in Mind XLVIII. 151 A formal concept is one which may have a place in a proposition about any subject-matter you please, and some..will be present in any proposition... ‘Not’, ‘exists’, ‘some’, ‘other’,..and many others are not peculiar to any special topics. 1955 A. N. Prior Formal Logic 197 The Russellian ‘formal’ implication is simply universal material implication. 1965 E. J. Lemmon Beginning Logic iv. 154 The term ‘formal implication’ was coined by Russell to describe the universal quantification over a material implication: i.e. a proposition of the form ‘(x) (Fx→Gx)’. e. Of or pertaining to customary form or conventionality. ΘΚΠ the world > action or operation > behaviour > a standard of conduct > [adjective] > conforming > relating to established rules ceremonious1597 formal1712 etiquettical1789 etiquetted1861 1712 A. Pope To Young Lady in Misc. Poems 140 Still in Constraint your suff'ring Sex remains, Or bound in formal, or in real Chains. 2. Characterized by, or regarded according to, its form; that is (so and so) in respect of form. a. Theology. formal sin: one which is such in the full sense, as including not merely the outward act which is forbidden, but the circumstances which constitute it as sinful, e.g. evil intention. So formal schism, formal schismatic, etc. Opposed to material sin, etc. ΘΚΠ society > faith > aspects of faith > sectarianism > schism > [noun] schismacy1387 schism1390 scission1443 segregationa1555 concision1557 scissure1566 formal schism1641 secession1660 society > faith > aspects of faith > spirituality > sin > kinds of sin > [noun] > formal formal sin1641 1641 J. Jackson True Evangelical Temper ii. 92 Therefore was there a positive Law..not to seeth the Kid in the mothers milke. Not that there was any direct, or formal sin, in that manner of Cookery. 1656 J. Bramhall Replic. to Bishop of Chalcedon i. 66 Cannot God pardon formall, much more materiall Schism. 1656 J. Bramhall Replic. to Bishop of Chalcedon ix. 341 They are not formall, but only materiall Schismaticks. †b. That is such in essence; strictly so called, essential. Obsolete. ΘΚΠ the world > existence and causation > existence > intrinsicality or inherence > essence or intrinsic nature > [adjective] > that is such in the absolute or highest sense essentialc1340 absolutec1454 formal1691 1691 J. Ray Wisdom of God 172 The bottom of the Eye, where the formal Organ of Vision is situate. †c. That is such merely in outward form or appearance. Obsolete. ΘΚΠ the world > physical sensation > sight and vision > thing seen > appearance or aspect > [adjective] > mere outward appearance utter?c1225 outwarda1382 superficial1531 external1564 formala1586 surface1828 apparitional1899 a1586 Sir P. Sidney Apol. Poetrie (1595) sig. D4^v Pretty Allegories, stealing vnder the formall tales of Beastes. 1633 Earl of Manchester Al Mondo: Contemplatio Mortis (rev. ed.) 146 Formall penitents will easily part with so much of their sinne as may abate nothing of their profit. 1634 J. Canne Necessitie of Separation iv. 209 The formall Protestants in England. 1737 H. Bracken Farriery Improved xxxiv. 488 It is a Kind of formal Leprosy which often begins in the Neck, Main, or Tail. †d. Of quoted statements: Exact with regard to form. Obsolete. ΘΚΠ the mind > mental capacity > knowledge > conformity with what is known, truth > truthfulness, veracity > [adjective] > following original exactly > in form formalc1549 formular1791 c1549 E. Bonner in J. Foxe Actes & Monuments (1563) 708/1 What were the formall wordes, or at the least wise in substance that I the sayde bishop then vtterid. 3. a. That is according to recognized forms, or to the rules of art or law. Formerly occasionally const. †to. ΘΚΠ the world > relative properties > order > agreement, harmony, or congruity > conformity to or with a pattern, etc. > [adjective] > conforming to a standard rule > conforming to rules of art or law formal1390 grammatical1846 1390 J. Gower Confessio Amantis III. 89 The wise man accompteth After the formal proprete Of algorismes a, be, ce. c1425 Wyntoun Cron. ix. Prol. 56 Now Modyr of þe Makare..To fair formale Fyne my labouris þow lede. 1526 W. Bonde Pylgrimage of Perfection iii. sig. KKKviii^v The fourthe condicion of the prayer of the clene hert is, that it muste be formall: that is to say, it must be formed & ordred after the order of charite. 1529 T. More Dialogue Heresyes C ij b A sylogysme & resonynge, almoste as formall as is the argumente. 1597 T. Morley Plaine & Easie Introd. Musicke 74 It followeth to speake of a formal closing without a dis-cord or Cadence. 1602 S. Daniel Trag. Philotas iv. ii. sig. E He first must to his accusation pleade, And haue his triall, formall to our lawes. 1622 G. de Malynes Consuetudo 394 You may not say in the Bill, It may please you to pay..and most men will not vse the words (Make him good Payment) but the fewer words the more formall. 1723 D. Defoe Hist. Col. Jack (ed. 2) 277 No one Place..could have held out a formal Siege. 1749 H. Fielding Tom Jones II. vi. vii. 269 (heading) A Picture of formal Courtship in Miniature, as it always ought to be drawn. View more context for this quotation †b. Made in proper form, regular, complete. Also in familiar use, ‘regular’, unmistakable. Obsolete. ΘΚΠ the world > relative properties > order > agreement, harmony, or congruity > conformity to or with a pattern, etc. > [adjective] > conforming to a standard rule rightOE justc1384 verya1425 orderly1542 ruled1551 normatic1598 formal1635 solemn1639 regular1643 mathematical1776 reglementary1800 rule-right1877 the mind > mental capacity > belief > uncertainty, doubt, hesitation > absence of doubt, confidence > assured fact, certainty > [adjective] wislyc1000 sickera1225 firm1377 unfailingc1400 decided1439 suredc1450 sure1470 infirmat1487 delivered1499 fast and sure1528 undeceivablea1535 undoubteda1535 certainc1540 true (also good, sure) as touch1590 constant1611 positivea1616 square1632 formal1635 unapocryphal1644 inconditional1646 inconditionate1654 undeceitful1673 unshakeable1677 unproblematic1683 unprecarious1688 unerring1697 safe1788 hard1791 unproblematical1792 decisive1800 dead-on1889 hands down1900 1635 Earl of Strafford Let. 9 Apr. (1739) I. 410 An Indisposition which hath hindred me from writing..a formal Fit of the Gout. 1673 J. Evelyn Mem. (1857) I. 89 We went..to see the formal and formidable camp on Blackheath, raised to invade Holland. 1684 London Gaz. No. 1953/1 Though the Lower Town has no other defence than a single Wall, yet his Highness found it convenient to make formal approaches to it. 1719 D. Defoe Life Robinson Crusoe 247 As there was a Door, or Entrance there into my Cave, I made a formal fram'd Door Case, and a Door to it of Boards. †c. Of a story, etc.: Elaborately constructed, circumstantial. Obsolete. ΘΚΠ society > leisure > the arts > literature > prose > narrative or story > types of narrative or story generally > [adjective] > other specific attributes formal1592 tendency1838 unartistic1854 happy ever afterwards1858 ben trovato1883 middle-length1928 hard-boiled1929 stream of consciousness1931 plutographic1985 1592 W. Warner Albions Eng. (rev. ed.) vii. xxxv. 151 At full he could his lessons, and a formale lie would tell. 1662 H. More Gen. Coll. Philos. Writings (1712) Pref. Gen. 23 Such was that formal story of his casting incense on the Altar of an Idol. 1663 S. Butler Hudibras: First Pt. i. ii. 74 And never coyn a formal lye on't, To make the Knight o'ercome the Giant. 1709 J. Swift Let. conc. Sacramental Test 4 When the Earl of P—ke was in Ireland..a formal Story was very gravely carried to his Excellency. †4. a. Regular, having a definite principle, methodical. ΘΚΠ the world > relative properties > order > [adjective] > of or relating to a system > systematic formal1413 methodical1570 methodic1620 systematical1686 systematic1722 systemical1724 scientific?1757 1413 Pilgr. Sowle (1859) i. iii. 4 The ouer~most of the erthe was moost clere, and alwey the clerenesse amenussing dounward by verray formal processe. 1701 N. Rowe Ambitious Step-mother v. ii. 2874 Formal Justice that severely strikes, And in an instant is serene and calm. b. Of feature, stature, etc.: Regular, shapely. ΘΚΠ the mind > attention and judgement > beauty > beauty of shape or form > [adjective] > specifically of persons featous1340 well-featureda1460 formal1525 featured1567 trim1568 1525 Ld. Berners tr. J. Froissart Cronycles II. clxiv. [clx.] 455 Therle of Foiz..was a goodly prince and of a formall stature. 1548 Hall's Vnion: Edward IV f. cxciij^v She was a woman more of formal countenaunce, then of excellent beautie, but yet of such beautie & fauor that [etc.]. 1576 A. Fleming tr. G. Macropedius in Panoplie Epist. 377 Every joynte and limme..verie formall, and passing hansome. c. Normal in intellect, sane. Obsolete. ΘΚΠ the world > health and disease > mental health > [adjective] in (one's right) witc1000 wittyc1000 wisec1290 well-tempered1340 reasonablec1400 safe1402 perfectc1440 well in (also of) one's witsa1450 right in one's geara1500 well-advised1532 sensed1549 unmad1570 well-advised1585 rational1598 solid1606 in one's (right) senses1613 formala1616 of (in) disposing mind or memory1628 compos mentis1631 righta1638 well-hinged1649 well-balanced1652 spacked1673 clear-headed1709 sane1721 unfantastic1794 unmaddened1797 pas si bête1840 lucid1843 unfantastical1862 clothed and in one's right mind1873 right-minded1876 ungiddy1904 clear1950 a1616 W. Shakespeare Comedy of Errors (1623) v. i. 106 With wholsome sirrups, drugges, and holy prayers To make of him a formall man againe. View more context for this quotation 5. a. Done or made with the forms recognized as ensuring validity; explicit and definite, as opposed to what is matter of tacit understanding. ΘΚΠ the world > relative properties > order > agreement, harmony, or congruity > conformity to or with a pattern, etc. > [adjective] > conforming to a standard rule > conforming to prescribed forms formable1479 formal1547 formed1702 1547 A. Borde Breuiary of Helthe i. Preamble f. v Let him loke to it and make a formal wyl or testament. 1586 in T. Thomson Acts & Proc. Kirk of Scotl. (1840) II. 665 It hes power to excommunicat the obstinat, formall proces being led. 1622 F. Bacon Advt. Holy Warre in Misc. Wks. (1629) 127 As there are Formall and written Leagues, Respective to certaine Enemies; So is there a Naturall and Tacite Confederation, amongst all Men against the common Enemy of Humane Society. 1626 King Charles I Let. in H. Ellis Orig. Lett. Eng. Hist. (1824) 1st Ser. III. 249 For Blenuill he hes yet but made his formale demands concerning the Ships. 1771 ‘Junius’ Stat Nominis Umbra (1772) II. lxii. 291 Nor has there ever been a formal decision against them in any of the superior courts. 1838 C. Thirlwall Hist. Greece (new ed.) II. xiv. 228 Cleomenes, without waiting for a formal commission, immediately repaired to Ægina. 1856 J. A. Froude Hist. Eng. (1858) II. vii. 129 Both the king and the archbishop had disobeyed a formal inhibition. b. Predicatively of a law: Of unmistakable import, decisive. [A Gallicism.] ΘΚΠ society > law > [adjective] > various epithets applied to laws vagabondc1485 strait1503 strict1578 unrelaxable1615 sanguinary1625 standard1660 formal1701 supplementary1714 eludible1735 organic1831 antinomic1849 loopy1856 antinomical1877 contravenable1880 violable1885 nexal1886 entrenched1920 hard1935 1701 tr. J. Le Clerc Lives Primitive Fathers 260 He could not be transferred to Constantinople, without breaking the Fifteenth Canon of the Council of Nice, which is Formal thereupon. 6. a. Connected with or accompanied by form or ceremony; ceremonial, ‘state’. ΘΚΠ the mind > emotion > pride > ostentation > ceremony or formality > [adjective] > full of or accompanied by ceremony or formality solemnc1369 solemned1423 solenc1460 solemnel?1473 formal1596 set1606 ceremoniousa1616 circumstantial1710 full dress1776 1596 W. Warner Albions Eng. (rev. ed.) xi. lxvii. 285 Scarce Cleopatras Anthony was feasted with more cheere..than Ienkinson was heere. In formall Hawking, Hunting, Chace, not them came Tristram neere. 1841 M. Elphinstone Hist. India I. iii. xi. 355 The most general practice on formal occasions is [etc.]. 1875 W. S. Hayward Love against World 3 It will save the squire a formal call. †b. Of apparel: Ceremonial, proper to a dignity or office. Cf. formality n. 10. Obsolete. ΘΚΠ the world > textiles and clothing > clothing > types or styles of clothing > [adjective] > for specific purpose > official or ceremonial wear formalc1593 set1676 full dress1761 c1593 in J. Raine Descr. Anc. Monuments Church of Durham (1842) 43 [Pictures of bps. etc.] most largly and sumptuously sett fourth in there formall apparell. 7. That is merely matter of form: a. Done or adopted for the sake of form or convention; perfunctory; having the form without the spirit or substance. ΘΚΠ the world > relative properties > order > agreement, harmony, or congruity > conformity to or with a pattern, etc. > [adjective] > conforming to a standard rule > conforming to prescribed forms > merely fashional?1607 fashionable1608 fashionarya1640 formal1649 pro forma1823 formalistic1856 formalist1900 1649 J. Milton Tenure of Kings 41 A formal preachment huddl'd up at the od hours of a..lazy week. 1676 J. Dryden Aureng-Zebe ii. 29 Of formal duty make no more thy boast. 1707 I. Watts Hymns & Spiritual Songs ii. 110 In vain we tune our formal songs, In vain we strive to rise. b. That is matter of routine only, not of substantial import. ΘΚΠ the world > action or operation > behaviour > customary or habitual mode of behaviour > [adjective] > routine routine1744 routinary1807 formal1818 routinish1830 jog-jog1837 clockworky1864 groove-like1902 1818 W. Cruise Digest Laws Eng. Real Prop. (ed. 2) IV. 256 This doctrine..does not extend to mere formal acts. 8. Of persons, their manners and actions: Rigorously observant of forms; precise; prim in attire; ceremonious. Chiefly in reproachful use: Unduly precise or ceremonious, stiff. ΘΚΠ the world > action or operation > behaviour > good behaviour > [adjective] > seemly or proper > strictly proper nicec1387 formal?1518 point-devicea1529 ceremonious1553 ceremonial1579 squarec1590 square-toeda1797 wiggy1817 nicey1859 uptight1969 the world > action or operation > behaviour > good behaviour > courtesy > [adjective] > formally formal?1518 the world > action or operation > behaviour > bad behaviour > discourtesy > [adjective] > not affable strange1338 estrangec1374 formal?1518 cold1557 squeamish1561 icy1567 buckrama1589 repulsive1598 starched1600 unaffable1603 stiff1608 withdrawing1611 reserved1612 aloof1639 cool1641 uncordial1643 inaffable1656 staunch1659 standfra1683 distant1710 starcha1716 distancing1749 pokerish1779 buckramed1793 angular1808 easeless1811 touch-me-not1817 starchy1824 standoffish1826 offish1827 poker-backed1830 standoff1837 stiffish1840 chilly1841 unapproachable1848 hedgehoggy1866 sticky1882 hard-to-get1899 stand-away1938 princesse lointaine1957 ?1518 A. Barclay Fyfte Eglog sig. A^v Amyntas was formalle, and propre in his gere. 1597 W. Shakespeare Richard III iii. i. 82 Thus like the formall vice iniquity, I morallize two meanings in one word. View more context for this quotation 1612 F. Bacon Ess. (new ed.) 176 Especially they [sc. Ceremonies] bee not to be omitted to strangers, & formall natures. a1616 W. Shakespeare Taming of Shrew (1623) iii. i. 59 Are you so formall sir? View more context for this quotation 1679 W. Penn Addr. Protestants (1692) i. vii. 27 He is reported Formal, that will not be Rude to Sacred Things. c1689 M. Prior Ode: While Blooming Youth 25 Forc'd compliments and formal bows. 1693 Humours & Conversat. Town 125 The distant Justice of Peace, his formal Spouse, and Daughters. 1711 J. Addison Spectator No. 119. ¶5 To make Conversation too stiff, formal and precise. 1749 Ld. Chesterfield Let. 12 Sept. (1932) (modernized text) IV. 1396 All the evening in formal fine company. 1853 E. Bulwer-Lytton My Novel I. ii. vii. 129 More familiar with his master than we formal English permit our domestics to be. 9. a. Marked by extreme or excessive regularity or symmetry; stiff or rigid in design; wanting in ease or freedom of outline or arrangement. ΘΚΠ the world > space > shape > symmetry or regularity > [adjective] > excessively regular formal1609 1609 W. Shakespeare Louers Complaint in Sonnets sig. K2 Her haire nor loose nor ti'd in formall plat. 1753 W. Hogarth Anal. Beauty vi. 34 When any part of dress has not the excuse of fitness or propriety for its uniformity of parts, the ladies always call it formal. 1807 Salmagundi 4 Apr. 136 Your plaited shirts, Your formal bag-wigs. 1873 W. Black Princess of Thule xxi. 353 Small windows with formal red curtains. 1874 L. Stephen Hours in Libr. 1st Ser. 148 Pope..was one of the first..to break through the old formal school of gardening. b. In immaterial sense: Having a ‘set’ or rigorously methodical aspect or character. ΘΚΠ the world > relative properties > order > [adjective] > of or relating to a system > systematic > rigorously formal1757 1757 G. Shelvocke, Jr. Shelvocke's Voy. round World (ed. 2) xiv. 423 It would, perhaps, be too formal to enter upon a discourse concerning their government. 1847 J. R. McCulloch Descr. & Statist. Acct. Brit. Empire (ed. 3) II. v. i. 367 Formal harangues of this sort are about the least efficient of all the modes in which information can be conveyed to the student. 1865 G. Grote Plato I. Pref. p. v The dramatic manifestation of Hellenic philosophy—as contrasted with the formal and systematising. B. n. A thing that is formal; esp. (originally and chiefly U.S.) (an) evening dress; an engagement at which such dress is worn. ΘΚΠ the world > existence and causation > existence > intrinsicality or inherence > essence or intrinsic nature > [noun] > essential elements substantialsa1398 internala1594 formal1605 fundamental1617 materialsa1631 essentials1663 hardtack1888 basic1934 funda1989 the world > textiles and clothing > clothing > types or styles of clothing > [noun] > for specific purpose > evening evening dress1782 evening wear1800 wampum and warpaint1876 formal1941 the world > textiles and clothing > clothing > types or styles of clothing > clothing for body or trunk (and limbs) > [noun] > dress, robe, or gown > types of > for specific purpose > for evening wear nightgown1700 evening gown1814 robe de style1909 formal1941 society > leisure > social event > type of social event > [noun] > at which evening dress is worn formal1946 1605 T. Tymme tr. J. Du Chesne Pract. Chymicall & Hermeticall Physicke ii. iv. 14 Simples may be distinguished into those things which are simple formes, and into those which are simple matters; or into those things which are simply formals, and into those which are simply materials. Those things which are simply formall are astrall and spirituall. 1875 W. D. Whitney Life & Growth Lang. v. 95 They are etherealized formals. 1941 Amer. Speech 16 96 They are all right for casuals or spectator wear, but I'd get that formal in either Waltz Blue or Coronado Coral. 1946 New Yorker 28 Sept. 27/2 The neighboring children were strange, with..their queer talk of dates, and formals, and going steady. 1948 New Yorker 27 Mar. 29/1 The initiates wore evening dresses (formals, formals, Emily reminded herself to say). 1961 M. Beadle These Ruins are Inhabited (1963) v. 71 If a dinner invitation does not specify ‘informal’, guests assume that black ties will be worn. Young ladies then wear short formals, and old ladies wear floor-length evening dresses. 1968 ‘A. York’ Predator vi. 86 She looked sufficiently virginal to be attending her first formal. Compounds formal operations n. Psychology (in Piaget's theory) those mental processes characteristic of the fourth and final stage of cognitive development, in which an individual is capable of abstract thought. ΘΚΠ the mind > mental capacity > psychology > developmental psychology > logical mental activity > [noun] > means of structuring possibility formal operations1963 1963 J. H. Flavell Devel. Psychol. J. Piaget iii. 86 The period of formal operations (11–15)... The adolescent can deal effectively not only with the reality before him..but also with the world of pure possibility. 1980 Ann. Rev. Sociol. 6 289 An individual's participation in the modern social world, for example, requires a transition from Piaget's concrete operations to his formal operations stage. 1985 Current Anthropol. 26 619/1 11 yrs. Formal-operations period: Hypothetical-deductive reasoning based on holding variables constant and systematic combinations. Draft additions March 2014 formal language n. chiefly Mathematics, Logic, and Computing a set of strings of symbols formed according to some rule or rules which determine how the symbols in a given collection can be combined. ΚΠ 1926 Jrnl. Philos. Stud. 1 183 The configuration and transformation are to be described in formal language, which employs very definite physical concepts and makes use of mathematical symbols. 1959 Proc. Internat. Conf. Sci. Information 1958 II. 1559 Special formal languages used in programming are now so flexible and powerful that they may be much better adapted to the discussion of search strategies than either natural languages or the formal languages of pre-programming mathematics. 2013 Spectator (Nexis) 16 Sept. 1 Symbolic Reasoning refers to any subject that uses a formal language to describe the disciplinary content. This entry has not yet been fully updated (first published 1897; most recently modified version published online June 2022). > see also also refers to : † formelformaln. > as lemmas formal formal n.² Brit. /ˈfɔːmal/ , U.S. /ˈfɔrˌmæl/ any of the acetals derived from formaldehyde, having the general formula CH₂(OR)₂; spec. methylal n., CH₂(OCH₃)₂. ΘΚΠ the world > matter > chemistry > organic chemistry > aldehydes or alkanals > [noun] > aldehyde derivatives acetal1838 hydramide1865 phenylhydrazone1888 hemi-acetal1893 formal1900 1900 W. A. N. Dorland Amer. Illustr. Med. Dict. 264/1 Formal, methylol or methylene dimethylate..: a clear, fragrant liquid. It is anesthetic and hypnotic. 1952 E. H. Rodd Chem. Carbon Compounds I. xvi. 1031 A mixture of the isomeric formals is obtained from glycerol, trioxymethylene and conc. HCl at 100°. extracted from form-comb. form¹ < adj.n.c1386 see also as lemmas
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formaladj.n.

Compounds

Draft additions March 2014

> see also

> as lemmas