formulaic

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.

What follows is a mostly formulaic “Toy Story” plot: A small yet drastic change has occurred, the toys are separated and they must all band together to reunite for the good of their kid.

From Salon • Jun. 21, 2026

“They’re often dry, formulaic and almost meaningless. It’s better if you tell your own story.”

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

While these celebrity docs are hagiographic and formulaic, the interviews with Nadal and family and rivals like Federer and Novak Djokovic do push beyond the surface.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026

Fruit is an absurd but also simple way to reflect the formulaic, sensationalist and stereotypical world of dating reality TV, Lupinacci said.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Though not nearly so spectacular, this manifestation of grief for Bunny was in many ways a similar phenomenon—an affirmation of community, a formulaic expression of homage and dread.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt