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

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

From BBC

"Computational models, like ours, can be used to formulate new hypotheses about real biological populations," she says.

From Science Daily

“A lot of people spend a lot of time and effort to help us with formulating what our agenda is,” Chair Rich Jones said.

From The Wall Street Journal

For example, the company formulated the ADC so it could be delivered through a subcutaneous injection, enabling patients to administer it themselves—a vital aspect of creating a commercially viable product.

From The Wall Street Journal

It argues the judge "flouted" new guidelines and improperly considered conduct for which Combs had been acquitted when formulating his punishment.

From BBC

Related Words

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