adverb

formally

formally, officially, ceremoniously

He was formally invited to the dinner.

He was formally invited to the dinner.

The building was formally opened by the Queen.

The building was formally opened by the Queen.

modifies a verb officially, according to rules The decision was formally announced yesterday.

Synonyms: officially, ceremoniously, properly; Antonyms: informally, casually

From 'formal' + the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Formal' comes from Latin 'formalis', from 'forma' (form, shape).

Think of a 'formal' event like a wedding. Everything is done 'formally' – according to the proper form and rules.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.