for·mal·i·ty 
/foɚˈmæləti/ noun
plural for·mal·i·ties /foɚˈmæləti/ noun 1 : a formal quality [noncount] ▪ Her use of old-fashioned language lends an air of formality to her writing. ▪ He failed to appreciate the formality of the occasion. [singular] ▪ a formality of expression 2 [count] : something that is required or usual but that has little true meaning or importance
▪ They haven't approved the loan yet, but that's just a mere/pure formality. 3 [count] : a formal part, activity, etc. — usually plural ▪ the formalities of courtship ▪ Let's skip the formalities and get right down to business.
▪ They haven't approved the loan yet, but that's just a mere/pure formality.
