If you describe a way of saying or doing something as formulaic, you are criticizing it because it is not original and has been used many times before in similar situations.
[disapproval]
His paintings are contrived and formulaic.
formulaic in American English
(ˌfɔrmjuˈleɪɪk; ˌfɔrmjəˈleɪɪk)
US
adjective
consisting of, or made or expressed according to, a formula or formulas
Examples of 'formulaic' in a sentence
formulaic
Test cricket brings drama in a less formulaic way.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
These could then become less formulaic and better tailored.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
But the only surprise here is in the formulaic plotting and the weirdly reactionary politics.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Almost all of these films have the same formulaic plot.
Christianity Today (2000)
Such a formulaic approach to stock picking has a distinctly patchy record.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
They did look at affordability, but not in such a formulaic way.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
It was an impressive spectacle, if rather formulaic.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
Rising above a formulaic plot device of mentor and novice, both stars give solid and authentic performances.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
A solid premise and strong performances from the eye-catching cast are spoilt by a formulaic approach.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
If only the script was less formulaic... but then that's the nature of the beast.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
It's macho and formulaic, but rather enjoyable nonetheless.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
An A-list cast do their best with B-movie dialogue and a formulaic plot.
The Sun (2014)
There's also something formulaic about the way in which each character's problems represent a different political issue.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
The gameplay can be a little formulaic and predictable at times, but it's still brilliant fun and completely addictive.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
In terms of drama, you could pitch the show in a sentence, so formulaic are its plots and obvious its tropes.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
A formulaic approach would, though, mean fewer cases in court.