Formal

• Formal logic reasons about an argument based only on the form and not on the meaning.

Example

If

Socrates is a man

and

all men are mortal,

then Socrates is mortal

If

S is a P

and

all P are M,

then S is M

Other Examples

• Formal verification[?] works in a formal language to attempt to prove formal properties[?] hold for a formal specification[?] of a formal system[?]
• Formal power series extend the notion of a power series by removing the requirement for convergance[?]. Thus they have the same form as a power serries, but a more abstract interpretation which can be applied more generally.
• Formal grammar - Formal set theory
• Formal occasions[?] such as a formal dinner party[?] or high tea might require one to wear formal attire[?] such as an evening gown[?] or tuxedo.

Compare with

• Informal -- Casual -- Intuitive