Describes speech, writing, or behavior that follows a set pattern without genuine feeling or spontaneity. Often carries a slightly negative nuance of being mechanical or lacking warmth.
His greetings are always formulaic and lack sincerity.
Used when something is done in an official capacity or according to formal procedures, without the negative connotation of being mechanical. Less common than 公式 (こうしき) alone.
The official announcement will be made tomorrow.