Skip to content

formellement

formally

adverb for-mel-MAHN Rare
Communication Expressions

Also means

strictly

Usage Note

Formellement can mean either 'in a formal manner' or — very commonly in French — 'strictly', as in formellement interdit ('strictly forbidden'). This second sense is the more frequent in everyday and official language and can trip up learners who expect only the first meaning. The adjective formel (feminine formelle) carries both senses.

Examples

"Cela est formellement interdit ici."

Natural Translation

This is strictly forbidden here.

Explore French by topic