formální

Formální is an adjective used in Czech and Slovak to describe things that relate to form, structure, or adherence to rules, and to designate a ceremonious or official character. The term is commonly applied to language, dress, events, and conduct to indicate formality.

Etymology and range: Formální comes from Latin formalis, from forma meaning form or shape. In everyday use it signals conformity with established norms or procedures, rather than casual or informal qualities.

Common usages: formální oděv (formal attire), formální jednání (formal proceedings), formální jazyk (formal language), and formální dokumenty (formal documents). In linguistics or grammar, formální can refer to grammatical forms (formální tvar) or to the formal register of speech or writing, as opposed to neformální (informal).

Nuance: The term often implies standardized, official, or polite style suitable for professional, ceremonial, or legal contexts. It is frequently contrasted with neformální, which denotes casualness, spontaneity, or everyday usage.

See also: neformální, formální jazyk, formální styl.