C1 noun Neutral

formula

/ˈfɔːrmjələ/

A formula is a fixed set of symbols or rules that expresses a mathematical or chemical relationship or a specific method for achieving a desired result. In a broader sense, it refers to a conventionalized or standard way of doing or saying something.

Examples

3 of 5
1

I need to buy some more baby formula at the grocery store this evening.

I need to buy some more baby formula at the grocery store this evening.

2

The diplomat proposed a new formula for peace that addressed the concerns of both nations.

The diplomat proposed a new formula for peace that addressed the concerns of both nations.

3

There's no magic formula for getting rich quickly, despite what the ads say.

There's no magic formula for getting rich quickly, despite what the ads say.

Word Family

Noun
formula
Verb
formulate
Adverb
formulaically
Adjective
formulaic
Related
formulation
💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'form' in 'formula' as the set shape or mold that information must fit into to get an answer.

Quick Quiz

The scientist spent years trying to develop a _____ for the new synthetic material.

Correct!

The correct answer is: formula

Examples

1

I need to buy some more baby formula at the grocery store this evening.

everyday

I need to buy some more baby formula at the grocery store this evening.

2

The diplomat proposed a new formula for peace that addressed the concerns of both nations.

formal

The diplomat proposed a new formula for peace that addressed the concerns of both nations.

3

There's no magic formula for getting rich quickly, despite what the ads say.

informal

There's no magic formula for getting rich quickly, despite what the ads say.

4

The students were asked to derive the formula for calculating the area of a sphere.

academic

The students were asked to derive the formula for calculating the area of a sphere.

5

The company’s business formula focuses on high-volume sales with low profit margins.

business

The company’s business formula focuses on high-volume sales with low profit margins.

Word Family

Noun
formula
Verb
formulate
Adverb
formulaically
Adjective
formulaic
Related
formulation

Common Collocations

mathematical formula a rule expressed using mathematical symbols
chemical formula a set of symbols showing the elements in a compound
winning formula a successful method of doing something
secret formula a confidential method or set of ingredients
infant formula a food substitute for breast milk

Common Phrases

a magic formula

a simple solution to a complex problem

formula for success

a strategy that leads to a positive outcome

formulaic response

a predictable or unoriginal reply

Often Confused With

formula vs form

A 'form' is the shape or a document to be filled, while a 'formula' is a rule or method.

formula vs recipe

A 'recipe' is specifically for cooking, whereas 'formula' is used for science, math, or abstract methods.

📝

Usage Notes

In technical writing (science and math), the plural 'formulae' is often used, whereas 'formulas' is more common in everyday English and business contexts.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often use 'formula' when they simply mean 'way' or 'plan' in contexts where it doesn't sound natural. It implies a rigid, reproducible set of steps.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'form' in 'formula' as the set shape or mold that information must fit into to get an answer.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin 'formula', which is the diminutive of 'forma' (meaning shape or mold).

Grammar Patterns

Countable noun Standard plural: formulas Scientific plural: formulae
🌍

Cultural Context

In the US, 'formula' is the standard term for manufactured breast milk substitute, whereas 'milk powder' might be used elsewhere.

Quick Quiz

The scientist spent years trying to develop a _____ for the new synthetic material.

Correct!

The correct answer is: formula

Related Words

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oblucation

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C1

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C1

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C1

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dislegly

C1

A test-specific term used to describe something that is not permitted by law or established rules. It characterizes actions, behaviors, or documents that violate a formal code or legal standard within a controlled linguistic simulation.

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