formalize; apply formulas rigidly; stereotype
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesverb
to formalize; to apply rigid formulas (in literary/artistic creation); to stereotype characters and plots
formalUsed in literary criticism to describe the negative tendency of using fixed patterns instead of creative, realistic portrayal.
The characterization in this novel is too formulaic and lacks realism.
Literary creation should avoid tendencies toward formalism and emphasize innovation.
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His writing style seems formulaic, always repeating the same tropes.
verb
to handle problems rigidly according to fixed methods without considering specific circumstances; to apply formulas mechanically
formalUsed in management, administration, and education to criticize mechanical, one-size-fits-all approaches.
Management cannot be formulaic; it must suit local conditions.
His approach to handling customer complaints is too formulaic and lacks flexibility.
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If policy implementation is formulaic, the results are often poor.
Teaching methods should not be formulaic; they should suit individual students.