formally
Americanadverb
-
in a formal manner.
The store was formally opened on Tuesday.
-
as regards form; in form.
It may be formally correct, but it is substantively wrong.
Etymology
Origin of formally
Compare meaning
How does formally compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
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.
Workflows were never explicit: A lot of high-value work depends on judgment that’s never been formally defined.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026
Hernández, however, is the only one who hasn’t formally announced his retirement as a player.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026
Around that time, academics formally described the value premium, basing it on simple accounting measures.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026
Plaid Cymru will formally launch its full manifesto on Thursday, with voters in Wales going to the polls in just under a month's time on 7 May.
From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026
“Welcome, Warrior, and many thanks for all you have brought us,” said Vikus formally.
From "Gregor the Overlander" by Suzanne Collins
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
