What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
formulated
Example
The company formulated a new marketing strategy to increase sales. [formulated: verb]
Example
The scientist formulated a hypothesis based on the data collected. [formulated: past tense]
devised
Example
The team devised a new system to improve efficiency in the workplace. [devised: verb]
Example
She devised a clever plan to surprise her friend on their birthday. [devised: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Formulated is more commonly used than devised in technical or scientific contexts, while devised is more commonly used in creative or problem-solving contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between formulated and devised?
Both formulated and devised can be used in formal or academic contexts, but formulated may have a more technical or scientific connotation, while devised may have a more imaginative or inventive connotation.