What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
formless
Example
The clouds in the sky were formless and constantly changing. [formless: adjective]
Example
The idea was still formless in his mind, and he struggled to articulate it. [formless: adjective]
unformed
Example
The clay on the potter's wheel was unformed and waiting to be shaped. [unformed: adjective]
Example
Her thoughts were still unformed, and she needed more time to process them. [unformed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Formless is less common than unformed in everyday language. Formless is more often used in artistic or poetic contexts, while unformed is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between formless and unformed?
Both formless and unformed are relatively neutral in terms of formality, and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.