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

But female guests don’t have their phones or any other resources that might help them formulate informed responses or fact-check Atlas’s dubious statistics.

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The company thanked Dávila for his five years on the board, including his role in formulating the chain’s ongoing strategic plan.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

She formulated that mission statement when she was starting out, dealing with teachers, directors and castmates who didn’t respect her because of her thin résumé.

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These first big-spending appropriations bills help explain why fiscal conservatives are working to deny Senator Collins a whip hand in formulating remaining appropriations bills.

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It was in response to a Jewish religious leader in the nascent U.S. that President George Washington memorably formulated the American promise of religious liberty.

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Related Words

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