formulate

American  

[fawr-myuh-leyt] / ˈfɔr myəˌleɪt /

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.

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formulate British  

/ ˈfɔːmjʊˌleɪt /

verb

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

2. to devise

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of formulate

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

Example Sentences

Alex’s reporting focuses in particular on the inner workings of the National Security Council and how top players in an administration formulate and execute foreign policy.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Carnot principle, which later became part of the second law of thermodynamics, was formulated for large-scale systems such as steam turbines.

From Science Daily

Over the years, I’ve formulated some principles that I continually refine, and that I share now in honor of our reader and his friend.

From Barron's

Details about how Venezuela will operate going forward are sketchy and being formulated.

From MarketWatch

BBC Sport also understands Britain is formulating bids to host multiple international cross-country championships over the next few years.

From BBC

Related Words

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