formalism
|for-mal-ism|
🇺🇸
/ˈfɔːrməˌlɪzəm/
🇬🇧
/ˈfɔːməlɪzəm/
emphasis on form
Etymology
'formalism' originates from the Latin word 'formalis,' where 'formalis' meant 'pertaining to form.'
'formalis' transformed into the French word 'formalisme,' and eventually became the modern English word 'formalism' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'pertaining to form,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'emphasizing form over content.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a method or style in art, literature, or music that emphasizes form over content or meaning.
The artist's work is a study in formalism, focusing on shapes and colors rather than narrative.
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Noun 2
an excessive adherence to prescribed forms or rules.
The bureaucrat's formalism made it difficult to implement any changes.
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Last updated: 2025/04/13 00:29