formally

Meanings

1. 1
   adv

   in a formal manner

   I was dressed rather formally for the interview.

2. 2
   adv

   with official authorization

   the club will be formally recognized

3. 3
   adv

   In a formal manner.

   He was dressed too formally for the occasion.

4. 4
   adv

   In accordance with official procedure.

   He formally filed a complaint, which involved much paperwork.

5. 5
   adv

   In accordance with rigorous rules.

   He proved it formally but gave his students no intuitive feel for the matter.

Etymology

From formal + -ly.