How to pronounce formality
Say it like for-MAL-uh-tee. Formality has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (MAL).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce formality. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- for
- MAL
- uh
- tee
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Formality pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- forKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "aw" in law.
- MALSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- teeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of formality
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: faw-MAL-uh-tee.
What does formality mean?
- The state of being formal.
- Something said or done as a matter of form.
- A customary ritual without substance, real consequence, or unique meaning.“The examination for priesthood is no mere formality, so we have to study well.”
Where does formality come from?
From Middle French formalité.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with formality
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of formality.
Questions about saying formality
How do you pronounce formality?
Say for-MAL-uh-tee. The American pronunciation is /fɔrˈmæləti/. In British English it is /fɔːˈmæləti/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in formality?
Formality has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (MAL). Broken into parts: for · MAL · uh · tee.
Is formality pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead. The British form is /fɔːˈmæləti/ (faw-MAL-uh-tee).