formal

In accordance with established forms.

She spoke formal English, without any dialect.

Official.

I'd like to make a formal complaint.

Despite efforts by limnologists and freshwater biologists to create a formal definition of “pond”, there is still no universal distinction between a “pond” and a “lake”.

Relating to the form or structure of something.

Formal linguistics ignores the vocabulary of languages and focuses solely on their grammar.

THE THREE DOMINANT FORMS IN METALSMITHING […] At present, there are but three basic volumetric forms dominating the work of metalsmiths, the spherical (usually in its most practical form, the domical), the cylindrical, and the cubical. […] The possibilities for further variations on them are all but exhausted, there being little chance to express new and unusual ideas within the framework of such limited choices. As a result, much of twentieth-century metalsmithing has relied on surface enrichment rather than formal development for its originality.

Relating to formation.

The formal stage is a critical part of any child's development.

Ceremonial or traditional.

Formal wear must be worn at my wedding!

An evening gown.

Well, I open up the door / And much to my surprise / The girls were wearin' formals / And the boys were wearin' ties

An event with a formal dress code.

Jenny took Sam to her Year 12 formal.

A formal parameter.

Ellipsis of formal hall.

Formalin.

An acetal formed from formaldehyde.