formalist

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the 51-page, partially redacted document, Sir Peter said Harry's lawyers had taken "an inappropriate, formalist interpretation of the Ravec process".

From BBC • Feb. 28, 2024

My dad is a die-hard Beatles fan too — that’s how I learned like, a formalist pop song structure.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 26, 2023

Zonana again employs the same formalist approach he used in his stunning debut, "Workforce," with artfully composed still shots that observe the action in a cold, detached manner.

From Salon • Jan. 20, 2023

Thorogood’s graphic memoir about her journey with depression is also a masterful formalist investigation of comics storytelling and a meta-exploration of memoir narratives.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 23, 2022

Frequently the same spirit which would make a man a tyrant in government, would make him a busy-body, a meddler, or a pedantic formalist, in the relations of ordinary life. 

From The Claims of Labour an essay on the duties of the employers to the employed by Helps, Arthur, Sir