conformare

Conformare is an Italian verb meaning to make something conform to a model, standard, or reference; to shape, adapt, or align elements to fit a given specification. It is transitive and used with a direct object, most often in constructions such as conformare qualcosa a qualcosa. The reflexive form conformarsi denotes the act of aligning oneself with rules, norms, or expectations.

Etymology: The verb derives from Latin conformare, formed from con- “together” and forma “shape.” It entered Italian through Latin-era usage and developed a range of senses from shaping objects to aligning with standards. Related nouns include conformità (compliance, conformity) and conformazione (conformation, shaping or structure).

Usage and senses: In technical or legal contexts, conformare indicates adjustment to meet specifications: conformare un pezzo al disegno (to shape a piece to the drawing). In regulatory language, one speaks of documenti conformi or in conformità alle norme (in accordance with the standards). The adjective conforme means compliant or matching, as in “un prodotto conforme.” The term conformista refers to a person who tends to conform to prevailing ideas or norms.

Grammar notes: Conformare follows the standard -are conjugation. Present indicative forms include: io conformo, tu conformi, lui/lei conforma, noi conformiamo, voi conformate, essi conformano. The reflexive form follows: io mi conformo, tu ti conformi, lui si conforma, noi ci conformiamo, voi vi conformate, loro si conformano. The noun forms conformità and conformazione are common in formal and technical language.