Translation guide
The English adverb "formally" can be expressed in Japanese through various adverbs, set phrases, and grammatical constructions depending on the context. It often relates to official procedures, polite speech, or ceremonial settings.
Describing an action done according to official rules, procedures, or protocols.
The most common and direct translation for 'formally' in official contexts, such as ceremonies, agreements, or procedures.
The contract was formally concluded.
He was formally inaugurated as president.
Used when something is done in an official capacity or publicly, often by an organization or authority.
The government formally issued a statement.
Implies doing something as a matter of form or for the sake of procedure, sometimes with a nuance of perfunctoriness.
The meeting was held merely formally.
Describing behavior, speech, or dress that follows social conventions of politeness or ceremony.
Used when someone behaves or speaks in a stiff, formal way, often due to the occasion. Can also mean 'solemnly'.
He formally apologized to me.
In formal settings, we use honorific language.
Means 'politely' or 'courteously', often overlapping with 'formally' in social interactions.
He bowed formally.
Loanword from English, used for dress codes, events, or styles that are formal.
Please dress formally tonight.
Referring to the outward form, structure, or appearance rather than the substance.
Expressing that speech or writing uses polite or formal registers, such as です・ます or honorifics.
In Japanese, speaking formally often means using the polite です・ます endings instead of plain forms. This is the most basic way to sound formal.
For higher formality, use 尊敬語 (respectful) or 謙譲語 (humble) forms. This is common in business or when speaking to superiors.
Is the company president here? (formal/honorific)
The phrase meaning 'to speak formally (using honorific language)'.
Speak formally to superiors.
English 'formally' can be ambiguous. In Japanese, you must choose the right word based on whether you mean officially, politely, or structurally. Using 正式に for polite speech would be unnatural.
正式に emphasizes adherence to proper procedure or ceremony. 公式に emphasizes official recognition or public announcement by an authority. For example, a wedding is 正式に, but a government statement is 公式に.
To speak formally, use です・ます form as a baseline. For business or very polite situations, incorporate 敬語 (honorific/humble language). Avoid plain forms (だ, である) unless in specific written contexts.
He formally announced his resignation.
Please dress formally for the event.
The agreement was formally signed.
We are waiting. (formal/humble)