formalism
noun
strict adherence to, or observance of, prescribed or traditional forms, as in music, poetry, and art.
formalist
-
a word derived from
formalism.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
More than 100 of his creations made from the 1950s through the 1980s outline his career, from its beginnings in functional pottery to explorations in abstract formalist constructions.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 6, 2026
In the 51-page, partially redacted document, Sir Peter said Harry's lawyers had taken "an inappropriate, formalist interpretation of the Ravec process".
From BBC ● Feb. 28, 2024
My dad is a die-hard Beatles fan too — that’s how I learned like, a formalist pop song structure.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 26, 2023
The complex and lively distribution of shapes and colors underscores why Adams calls himself a formalist.
From New York Times ● Feb. 16, 2023
Assume an air of deference and respect, and they 'll set you down for a cold formalist, with whom they can have nothing in common.
From The Daltons, Volume I (of II) Or,Three Roads In Life by Charles James Lever
