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Solemnity vs Formality - What's the difference?

solemnity | formality | Related terms |

As nouns the difference between solemnity and formality

is that solemnity is the quality of being deeply serious and sober or solemn while formality is the state of being formal.

solemnity

English

Noun

(solemnities)
  • The quality of being deeply serious and sober or solemn.
  • the solemnity of a funeral
  • * Addison
  • The stateliness and gravity of the Spaniards shows itself in the solemnity of their language.
  • * J. Edwards
  • These promises were often made with great solemnity and confirmed with an oath.
  • An instance or example of solemn behavior; a rite or ceremony performed with reverence.
  • * Alexander Pope
  • Great was the cause; our old solemnities / From no blind zeal or fond tradition rise, / But saved from death, our Argives yearly pay / These grateful honours to the god of day.
  • * Atterbury
  • The forms and solemnities of the last judgment.
  • (legal) A solemn or formal observance; proceeding according to due form; the formality which is necessary to render a thing done valid.
  • Anagrams

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    References

    formality

    Noun

  • (uncountable) The state of being formal.
  • Something said or done as a matter of form.
  • A customary ritual without new or unique meaning.
  • A specific requirement for obtaining a legal status, conducting a transaction, etc.