formalism
noun/ˈfɔrməˌlɪzəm/
Frequency rank: #17,418 most common English word
Meaning
strict adherence to prescribed forms, rules, or conventions, often at the expense of deeper meaning or substance.
Example sentence
The professor criticized the excessive formalism in the legal system, arguing that rigid rules sometimes prevent true justice.
Synonyms & related words
- rigidity
- conventionalism
- legalism
- strictness
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