American English

How to pronounce formulas

nounB1Common word
FORmyuhluhz

/ˈfɔɹ.mjə.ləz/

3 syllables · Stress the first syllable.

Form of formula

In everyday American English, formulas is the usual plural; formulae is more common in technical writing.

Sets of letters, numbers, or symbols that show how to calculate something or describe relationships in mathematics or science.

Practice out loud

Meanings & examples

plural noun

Sets of letters, numbers, or symbols that show how to calculate something or describe relationships in mathematics or science.

Students use formulas to calculate the area of a circle.

Scientists use formulas to describe relationships between quantities.

plural noun

Fixed methods or combinations of ideas that are expected to produce particular results.

There are no simple formulas for solving every problem.

Successful businesses often follow proven formulas.

plural noun

Different kinds of powdered or liquid food for babies who are not being fed breast milk.

Doctors may recommend different formulas for babies with allergies.

The store sells formulas for babies with special dietary needs.

Useful expressions

magic formula

A simple solution that seems to solve a difficult problem.

There is no magic formula for getting rich.

winning formula

A combination of ideas or actions that leads to success.

Good food and friendly service are a winning formula.

formula for success

A method believed to lead to success.

Hard work is not the only formula for success.

Related words & forms

In everyday American English, formulas is the usual plural. Formulae is also used, especially in technical writing.