Definition

1. Verb:
   • To create or prepare something methodically, often according to a specific system or formula: This meaning emphasizes the structured and deliberate process of developing something, such as a plan, policy, or product.
   • To express an idea, thought, or plan clearly and precisely in words: This meaning focuses on the articulation of concepts into a defined verbal or written statement.
   • To devise or develop a concept, theory, or plan after careful thought: This meaning highlights the intellectual effort involved in conceiving and working out an idea.

Examples of Usage

• Verb:
  • The scientist worked to formulate a new hypothesis based on the experimental data.
  • It took the committee several weeks to formulate a response to the crisis.
  • She carefully formulated her question to avoid any misunderstanding.

Advanced Usage

• "to formulate a strategy": to develop a detailed plan of action.
  • The marketing team needs to formulate a strategy for the new product launch.
• "to formulate an argument": to construct a reasoned case or position.
  • The lawyer took time to formulate a compelling argument for the defense.

Variants and Related Words

• Formulation (n): The act or process of formulating, or the product that is formulated.
  • The formulation of the new policy required extensive research.
• Reformulate (v): To formulate again or differently.
  • The company had to reformulate the product after customer feedback.

Synonyms

• Devise: To plan or invent by careful thought.
• Articulate: To express an idea or feeling fluently and coherently.
• Frame: To formulate (a concept, plan, or system).
• Conceive: To form or devise (a plan or idea) in the mind.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Formulate" is not commonly used with particles to form phrasal verbs. Its meanings are typically expressed directly.)

Related Idioms

(Note: There are no common idioms that use the verb "formulate" as their core component.)

Verb

1. prepare according to a formula
2. put into words or an expression
   • He formulated his concerns to the board of trustees
3. come up with (an idea, plan, explanation, theory, or principle) after a mental effort
   • excogitate a way to measure the speed of light
4. elaborate, as of theories and hypotheses
   • Could you develop the ideas in your thesis