formulate

[ fawr-myuh-leyt ]

verb (used with object)

, for·mu·lat·ed, for·mu·lat·ing.

1. to express in precise form; state definitely or systematically:

   He finds it extremely difficult to formulate his new theory.

   Synonyms: specify, define, compose, frame, articulate

2. to devise or develop, as a method, system, etc.
3. to reduce to or express in a formula.

formulate

/ ˈfɔːmjʊˌleɪt /

verb

1. to put into or express in systematic terms; express in or as if in a formula
2. to devise

Derived Forms

• ˈformuˌlator, noun

Other Words From

• for·mu·la·ble [fawr, -my, uh, -l, uh, -b, uh, l], adjective
• formu·lation noun
• formu·lator noun
• nonfor·mu·lation noun
• pre·formu·late verb (used with object) preformulated preformulating
• prefor·mu·lation noun
• un·formu·lated adjective
• well-formu·lated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of formulate¹

First recorded in 1855–60; formul(a) + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Whether it was George Washington’s insistence that he was the one to formulate foreign policy when it came to diplomacy, treaties and more; Thomas Jefferson’s assertion of complete control over whether or not to attack the Barbary Pirates; James Polk’s decision to take actions which risked war with Mexico; or Abraham Lincoln’s “sweeping assertions of authority” in the Civil War era, executive claims to authority when it comes to matters of foreign relations and warfare have been a persistent feature of American history.

From Salon

The two worked with Trump to formulate a winning presidential primary strategy.

From BBC

The two worked with Trump to formulate a presidential primary strategy.

From BBC

But the teacher listened patiently as she explained why this was a misreading of Angelou’s vernacular style, even helping her formulate her argument against him.

From Los Angeles Times

The home ministry also said that marriage was a social institution and the issue raised in the petitions was more social than legal and hence it should be left to the parliament to formulate policy.

From BBC

Related Words

• codify
• define
• develop
• devise
• draft
• draw up
• forge
• map
• prepare
• work out