Meðformlegri

Meðformlegri is an Icelandic comparative form of the adjective formlegur meaning “more formal.” It is used with the preposition með to express a higher degree of formality in speech, writing, dress, or conduct. The term is most commonly encountered in formal or careful registers, public discourse, and media language.

Morphology and usage

The base adjective formlegur yields the comparative form formlegri. When combined with the preposition með, it forms meðformlegri, a prepositional construction that functions to describe manner or approach to formality. In practice, meðformlegri appears in sentences such as those comparing how something is done or presented: for example, tasks or events can be described as performed or presented in a more formal way than usual. It can also modify clauses or phrases that denote manner, such as tala eða ræða, to indicate a higher degree of formality.

Stylistic notes

Meðformlegri is typically more formal or emphatic than simply using formlegri alone. In everyday speech, speakers may prefer the simpler formlegri, while meðformlegri tends to appear in written prose, official communication, or contexts where careful tone matters. The construction signals a deliberate shift toward formality and can be used to compare standards, styles, or protocols.

Orthography and related terms

The word is written as one word: meðformlegri. Related terms include formlegur (formal), formality, and phrases such as með formlegri hætti (in a more formal manner). See also Icelandic grammar and comparative forms.