formulate

[ fawr-myuh-leyt ]

verb (used with object)

formulated, formulating.

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 Word Forms

• 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

When formulating the idea of the Do Lab, the Flemming brothers say they weren’t thinking about what was next.

From Los Angeles Times

During the interview, Zelensky praised the array of plans that are being formulated in western Europe – led by the UK, France and Germany – to spend more on defence.

From BBC

New administrators parachuted in to caretake a vast sprawling business would be ill-equipped to take on the task of turning around a company whose new management insists had formulated a clear plan.

From BBC

Farming and labor groups say they are still formulating their strategies for pushing significant legislative changes.

From Los Angeles Times

The Democrats showed last week that presidential addresses to Congress are no place to formulate a resistance.

From Salon

Related Words

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