Formative Meaning in English
word
Definition
Something is 'formative' if it strongly influences the development or growth of a person, idea, or thing, especially in early stages.
Usage & Nuances
Most often used in formal or academic contexts—'formative years', 'formative experience'. Refers to strong, long-term influence during early stages. Not usually used for physical shapes ('form' as in shape is unrelated here).
Example Sentences
Your formative years are important for your character.
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The teacher had a formative influence on her students.
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Traveling abroad was a formative experience for him.
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Those early jobs were really formative for my career.
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High school was a formative period where I discovered my interests.
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Living alone for the first time was a truly formative chapter in my life.
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