Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
formal system

formal system

1 9.8
A set of symbols and rules that people use to make and check proofs in logic
  • noun
  • /ˈfɔrməl ˈsɪstəm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : sistema formal
  • Many disciplines rely on a formal system to ensure that all deductions follow strict logical guidelines.
  • a more formal system

Well, it is the working out of all possible formal systems.

Autoplay Next

Examples

  • After the passage of the military code in 1994 established a formal system for the transfer of military authority, Ortega finally agreed to retire.

    Academic text (2003)

  • Those individuals who understand formal systems within a college can use this knowledge to their advantage.

    Academic text (2008)

  • And most importantly, it allows you to prove properties of the formal system itself.

  • Do you have a formal system in place for making such requests?

    Blog text (8)

  • Integrated service delivery requires a formal system of coordination of the work of participating agencies.

    Academic text (2000)

  • A key piece of the formal system puzzle centers on committees and their role within a college.

    Academic text (2008)

  • Many organizations do not "solve" the principal-agent problem through a formal system of monitoring and accountability at all.

    Academic text (2004)

  • The significance of symmetry is rooted in the fact that it can be demonstrated within the rules of a formal system, particularly mathematics, and thereby provide a unified description of the fundamental laws of nature.

    Academic text (2009)

  • In mathematics, a formal system is essential for proving theorems based on defined axioms and rules.

  • To analyze logical reasoning, a formal system must have clear symbols and inference rules.

Synonyms

axiomatic system
vsformal system
  • Specialized
1 9.5

A set of basic rules and statements used to build a math or logic theory

focuses on symbol sets and inference rules rather than starting from axioms
logical system
vsformal system
  • Specialized
1 6.5

A set of rules and methods for making correct conclusions

relies more on explicit symbols, formula formation, and inference rules
system of logic
vsformal system
  • Specialized
7.0

A set of rules and ideas used to decide if an argument is correct

uses explicit symbol sets and formula formation for deductions

How Formal

formal system
  • Specialized
1 9.8
procedure
688 3.7
practice
613 1.4

Surface Forms

formal system singular
formal systems plural

Morphology

formal + system

The noun phrase is a direct composition: an underlying "system" qualified by "formal" (i.e. governed by explicit rules or form). A B1 learner who knows 'formal' (rule-based, not informal) and 'system' (set of parts/rules) can infer the general meaning even if they miss technical details about symbols and inference.

Etymology

Formal system gives a clear picture: a strict rulebook (formal) and a set of parts working together (system) that move symbols step by step, like players following rules in a game. So, a formal system is a way to write and check logical ideas using symbols and rules.