formulate

[fawr-myuh-leyt]

verb (used with object)

formulated, formulating 

1. to express in precise form; state definitely or systematically.

   He finds it extremely difficult to formulate his new theory.

   Synonyms: specify, define, compose, frame, articulate

2. to devise or develop, as a method, system, etc.

3. to reduce to or express in a formula.

formulate

/ ˈfɔːmjʊˌleɪt /

verb

1. to put into or express in systematic terms; express in or as if in a formula

2. to devise

Other Word Forms

• formulable adjective
• formulation noun
• formulator noun
• nonformulation noun
• preformulate verb (used with object)
• preformulation noun
• unformulated adjective
• well-formulated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of formulate¹

First recorded in 1855–60; formul(a) + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

A senior administration official said even though Navarro’s television appearances have declined, he’s still involved in formulating China policies.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Each shoot is then placed in a carefully formulated gel, which encourages it to grow roots.

Read more on BBC

China's ruling Communist Party will on Monday kick off four days of key closed-door discussions, formulating core economic strategy for coming years as growth flags and trade headwinds mount.

Read more on Barron's

They formulated an identity, and rode it to the winningest season in their franchise’s history at 97-65.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

While lawyers and their staff do much of the legwork for trial preparation, a client works with their attorneys to help formulate a defense.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• codify 
• define 
• develop 
• devise 
• draft 
• draw up 
• forge 
• map 
• prepare 
• work out