formula

word

/ˈfɔɹmjəɫə/
FOR-myuh-luh
/fˈɔːmjʊlɐ/
FAW-myuu-luh

Definition

A formula is a fixed set of symbols, words, or ingredients used to produce a result. It can mean a mathematical or scientific equation, a recipe or mixture, or a usual method for doing something successfully.

Usage & Nuances

Common collocations include 'math formula', 'chemical formula', 'baby formula', and 'the formula for success'. 'Formula' can be literal in science or cooking, but it is also used figuratively for a repeated pattern. In everyday English, 'baby formula' is a very common specific meaning.

Example Sentences

There’s no secret formula for getting better at English—you just have to keep using it.

natural

The teacher wrote a formula on the board.

basic

This milk formula is for small babies.

basic

We need the right formula to make the soap.

basic

That movie follows the same old formula, but somehow it still works.

natural

If the spreadsheet is wrong, check the formula in that cell first.

natural