Definition

1. Noun:
   • A standard procedure for solving a class of mathematical problems: A fixed, symbolic expression that shows the relationship between different quantities or variables.
   • A representation of a substance using symbols for its constituent elements: A symbolic expression indicating the composition of a chemical compound.
   • A conventionalized statement expressing some fundamental principle: A fixed or set form of words used in a particular situation, such as a ritual, legal document, or polite expression.
   • A liquid food for infants: A prescribed preparation serving as a substitute for breast milk.
   • A group of symbols that make a mathematical statement: An arrangement of symbols expressing a mathematical rule or relationship.
   • Directions for making something: A recipe or prescribed method for preparing or achieving something.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The formula for calculating the area of a circle is A = πr².
  • The chemical formula for water is H₂O.
  • He greeted the guests with the usual polite formula.
  • The baby was fed a special formula because she had allergies.
  • The scientist developed a new formula for the synthetic material.

Advanced Usage

• "Formula fiction": A type of fiction that follows a predictable, conventional plot pattern.
  • Many romance novels are considered formula fiction.
• "To work to a formula": To follow a fixed, often unoriginal, method or pattern.
  • The director's latest films feel like he's just working to a formula.

Variants and Related Words

• Formulate (verb): To create or express something in a precise or systematic way.
  • She formulated a new theory.
• Formulation (noun): The action of creating or preparing something methodically, or the particular form in which it is expressed.
  • The formulation of the policy took months.
• Formulary (noun): An official list giving details of medicines and their prescribed uses.
• Formulistic (adjective): Characterized by the use of formulas or set forms.

Synonyms

• Equation: A statement that the values of two mathematical expressions are equal.
• Recipe: A set of instructions for preparing a particular dish or achieving a result.
• Blueprint: A detailed plan or model.
• Method: A particular procedure for accomplishing something.

Related Phrases

• Formula One (F1): The highest class of international auto racing for single-seater formula racing cars.
  • He is a champion Formula One driver.
• Infant formula: A manufactured food designed for feeding babies.
  • They bought a can of infant formula.

Idioms

• A formula for success/disaster: A sure way to achieve success or cause disaster.
  • Ignoring customer feedback is a formula for disaster.
• Magic formula: A method or secret that is sure to bring success.
  • There is no magic formula for learning a language; it requires consistent practice.

Noun

1. (mathematics) a standard procedure for solving a class of mathematical problems
   • he determined the upper bound with Descartes' rule of signs
   • he gave us a general formula for attacking polynomials
2. a liquid food for infants
3. something regarded as a normative example
   • the convention of not naming the main character
   • violence is the rule not the exception
   • his formula for impressing visitors
4. a representation of a substance using symbols for its constituent elements
5. a conventionalized statement expressing some fundamental principle
6. directions for making something
7. a group of symbols that make a mathematical statement