正式 (zhèngshì)

正式 means formal, official, or proper, describing something done according to official procedures or in a formal setting.

Meanings

[adjective] formal; official; done in accordance with proper or established procedures

Example Sentences

请穿正式的服装参加面试。 Qǐng chuān zhèngshì de fúzhuāng cānjiā miànshì. Please wear formal attire for the interview.

公司正式宣布了新计划。 Gōngsī zhèngshì xuānbù le xīn jìhuà. The company officially announced the new plan.

这是一次正式的外交会议。 Zhè shì yī cì zhèngshì de wàijiāo huìyì. This is a formal diplomatic meeting.

合同正式签署后才能生效。 Hétong zhèngshì qiānshǔ hòu cái néng shēngxiào. The contract takes effect only after it is formally signed.

Collocations

Collocation	Meaning
正式场合	formal occasion
正式文件	official document
正式宣布	to officially announce
非正式	informal; unofficial

Usage Notes

正式 often contrasts with 非正式 (informal) or 临时 (temporary). It indicates that something is sanctioned, official, or conducted according to proper etiquette. It modifies nouns and can also function as an adverb (e.g., 正式宣布 means "officially announce").

Memory Hook

正 means "correct/upright" and 式 means "style/form": something 正式 follows the correct form, the proper official style.