1. strict adherence to formulas, rules, or established procedures, often at the expense of flexibility, creativity, or genuine understanding
Usage: often used critically to describe rigid or mechanical approaches

Examples

• The teacher criticized the student's formulism in essay writing, noting that he followed the template without developing original ideas.
• Formulism in legal interpretation can prevent judges from considering the spirit of the law.
• The artist rejected formulism and sought to develop a more personal, expressive style.
• Excessive formulism in religious practice can diminish genuine spiritual engagement.
• The company's formulism in customer service left little room for individual problem-solving.