Definitions
- Referring to a way of doing something that follows established rules or customs. - Describing a way of dressing or behaving in a dignified and proper manner. - Talking about a way of communicating that is polite, respectful, and appropriate for a particular situation.
- Referring to a way of doing something that is recognized or authorized by an authority or organization. - Describing a way of communicating that is formal and carries legal or official weight. - Talking about a way of confirming or verifying information or status through a recognized process or procedure.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words are adverbs that describe a way of doing something.
- 2Both words can be used to describe a formal or proper way of behavior or communication.
- 3Both words can be used to convey a sense of legitimacy or authorization.
What is the difference?
- 1Authority: Officially implies recognition or authorization by an authority or organization, while formally does not necessarily involve such recognition.
- 2Legal weight: Officially carries a legal or official weight, while formally does not necessarily have such implications.
- 3Process: Officially often involves a recognized process or procedure, while formally may not require such a process.
- 4Connotation: Formally is often associated with politeness and respect, while officially is more neutral and factual.
- 5Usage: Formally is more commonly used in social or interpersonal contexts, while officially is more commonly used in legal or bureaucratic contexts.
Remember this!
Formally and officially are adverbs that describe a way of doing something in a formal or proper manner. However, officially implies recognition or authorization by an authority or organization and carries a legal or official weight, while formally does not necessarily involve such recognition or implications. Formally is often associated with politeness and respect and is more commonly used in social or interpersonal contexts, while officially is more commonly used in legal or bureaucratic contexts.
