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Theoretical vs Formal - What's the difference?

theoretical | formal |

As an adjective theoretical

is of or relating to theory; abstract; not empirical.

As a noun formal is

an objective.

theoretical

English

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • Of or relating to theory; abstract; not empirical.

    • Derived terms

    * intertheoretical * intratheoretical * nontheoretical

    Coordinate terms

    * practical

    formal

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Being in accord with established forms.
  • :
  • Official.
  • :
  • Relating to the form or structure of something.
  • :
  • *
  • Relating to formation.
  • :
  • Ceremonial.
  • :(rfquote-sense)
  • Proper, according to strict etiquette; not casual.
  • :
  • Organized; well-structured and planned.
  • :
  • (mathematics) Relating to mere manipulation and construction of strings of symbols, without regard to their meaning.
  • :

    • Antonyms

    * informal

    Derived terms

    * formal cause * formalize * formalist * formalism * formality

    Related terms

    * form

    Noun

    (en noun)
  • Formalin.
  • An evening gown.
  • An event with a formal dress code.
    • Jenny took Sam to her Year 12 formal .

    External links

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