informality — the quality of being relaxed and friendly rather than following strict rules of behavior or protocol
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the quality of being relaxed and friendly rather than following strict rules of behavior or protocol
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌɪnfɔːrˈmæləti/
Example Sentences
- The professor's informality made students feel comfortable asking questions during the civil service prep class.
- He greeted the department head with such informality that everyone gasped—he literally said 'Yo, boss!'
- Despite the informality of the interview, candidates should still prepare thoroughly for civil service exams.
informality
NOUN[/ˌɪnfɔːrˈmæləti/]
the quality of being relaxed and friendly rather than following strict rules of behavior or protocol
The informality of the beach wedding made everyone feel instantly at ease.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This word derives from Latin, combining the prefix 'in-' (not, without) and 'formalis' (formal, relating to form), with the suffix '-ity' added to create an abstract noun. The term originally denoted the state of being without formality, later developing to mean casualness, lack of ceremony, or relaxed manner.
Breakdown
in- (not, without) + formal (from Latin formalis, relating to form or ceremony) + -ity (suffix forming abstract nouns denoting state or quality).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The professor's informality made students feel comfortable asking questions during the civil service prep class.”
“He greeted the department head with such informality that everyone gasped—he literally said 'Yo, boss!'”
“Despite the informality of the interview, candidates should still prepare thoroughly for civil service exams.”
“The new government policy promotes informality in public communication to make it more approachable.”
“My friend's informality at the formal dinner was so extreme he brought his own instant noodles.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.