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Definition of formally adverb from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

formally

adverb
 
/ˈfɔːməli/
 
/ˈfɔːrməli/
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  1. in a very correct way that is suitable for official or important occasions opposite informally
    • ‘How do you do?’ she said formally.
  2. officially; in a way that follows an agreed or official way of doing things
    • The accounts were formally approved by the board.
  3. through lessons, exams, etc. received in a school, college or university rather than just through practical experience
    • Although not formally trained as an art historian, he is widely respected for his knowledge of the period.
  4. in the way that something appears or is presented
    • Formally, the distinction between town and country workers was clear, but in practice there was some overlap.
  5. in a regular manner, according to a clear, exact plan synonym informally
    • The gardens were formally arranged.
See formally in the Oxford Learner's Dictionary of Academic English
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noun
 
 
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