noun
formality
fawr-MA-lih-tee
noun
1
A required official procedure, often just a routine step.
"Signing the paperwork is just a formality at this point."
"There are a few legal formalities to complete before the sale is final."
2
The quality of being formal or proper in manner.
"The ceremony was marked by great formality."
How to Use Formality
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA required step that's largely routine, or the general quality of being formal and proper.
Common pairings
a mere formality
legal formalities
observe formality
Word Forms
formalities plural
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Signing the paperwork is just a _____ at this point.
Etymology
From Middle French formalité, from formal + -ity.