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formative

[fawr-muh-tiv] / ˈfɔr mə tɪv /
ADJECTIVE
influential, impressionable
Synonyms
Antonyms
WEAK
destructive noninfluential


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.

An event like FuelFest, Walker said, can be formative in fostering a lifelong passion and creative outlet for car-curious children.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

Malls and physical stores have been popular among Gen Z consumers that spent their formative years locked down during the pandemic.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

His mother planned every detail of those very first, life-changing flights with her son in mind, and that gift is one formative enough to last an eternity.

From Salon • Jun. 2, 2026

Big-ticket purchases like a first car or down payment on a home become much more achievable during their formative years if a parent intentionally set money aside to help cover costs.

From MarketWatch • May 29, 2026

Wolf interjected that he could always move to Russia, where he had spent the formative years of his life.

From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau




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