1. in a manner that emphasizes form, structure, or rules over substance, meaning, or practical content
Usage: often used critically to suggest excessive attention to procedure at the expense of purpose

Examples

• The teacher graded the essay formalistically, focusing only on structure and ignoring creative ideas.
• The committee approached the problem formalistically, following every rule without questioning whether it made sense.
• He interpreted the law formalistically, adhering strictly to the letter rather than the spirit of the regulation.
• The artist rejected formalistically composed works in favor of more expressive pieces.
• The bureaucracy operated formalistically, prioritizing paperwork over actual results.