Formulas vs. Formulae — What's the Difference?

By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 3, 2023

"Formulas" and "Formulae" both denote the plural of "Formula," but "Formulas" is preferred in American English, while "Formulae" is traditionally used in British English.

Difference Between Formulas and Formulae

Table of Contents

➝ Key Differences ➝ Comparison Chart ➝ Definitions ➝ FAQs

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Key Differences

"Formulas" can be observed pervading scientific, mathematical, and general contexts within American English, embodying a versatile and universally accepted form. In contrast, while "Formulae" also percolates through various subjects within British English, it often conjures an antiquated or formal aura, making it less prevalent in casual dialogue or writing.

Oct 03, 2023

Examining linguistic evolution and adaptability, "Formulas" emerges as a testament to linguistic simplification and modernization in American English. On the other side of the spectrum, "Formulae" steadfastly upholds the traditional Latin pluralization, showcasing British English’s penchant for maintaining classic linguistic forms.

Oct 03, 2023

Diving into academic and scientific realms, "Formulas" readily presents itself in American textbooks, research papers, and discussions, harmonizing with the nation’s linguistic norms. Meanwhile, "Formulae" might weave through British scholarly materials and dialogues, exhibiting a nuanced preference for traditional language, especially in formal or scholarly scenarios.

Oct 03, 2023

Thus, while "Formulas" and "Formulae" are interchangeable in the essence they convey, the discerning difference lies entrenched in regional linguistic preferences, with the former aligning with American English and the latter, while understood globally, resonating more profoundly with British English speakers and classical language enthusiasts.

Oct 03, 2023

While both "Formulas" and "Formulae" indeed serve as the plural form of "Formula," distinct usage patterns emerge between American and British English. "Formulas" tends to be widely accepted and utilized within American English contexts, embracing a more modern linguistic tilt. Conversely, "Formulae" finds its roots deeply embedded within British English, maintaining a classical and somewhat academic resonance.

Oct 03, 2023

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Comparison Chart

Regional Preference

Predominantly American English

Leans towards British English

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Formality Level

Acceptable in both formal & informal

Sometimes considered more formal/classical

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Linguistic Trend

Modern, simplified

Traditional, classic

Oct 03, 2023

Academic Usage

Common in American scholarly materials

Observed in British academic contexts

Oct 03, 2023

General Usage

Universally understood

Universally understood, but less common

Oct 03, 2023

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Definitions

Formulas

Plural form of “formula,” often used in American English.

The scientist devised several formulas during his research.

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Formulae

Common in academic and scientific literature.

Numerous formulae were assessed during the experiment.

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Formulas

Can represent multiple mathematical expressions.

The teacher explained the formulas for algebraic calculations.

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Formulae

May be chosen for a slightly formal or traditional tone.

She was fascinated by the various formulae in classical physics.

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Formulas

Applied in various disciplines like science, mathematics, and finance.

The accountant demonstrated financial formulas.

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Formulae

Sometimes utilized to denote plural methods or procedures.

The textbook highlighted formulae for solving equations.

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Formulas

Sometimes utilized in general language to denote multiple methods or recipes.

The chef created unique formulas for sauces.

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Formulae

Traditional plural form of “formula,” often found in British English.

The professor discussed complex formulae in the lecture.

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Formulas

May denote various prescribed or standardized methods.

She learned various formulas to solve the problems.

Oct 03, 2023

Formulae

An established form of words or symbols for use in a ceremony or procedure.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

An established form of words or symbols for use in a ceremony or procedure.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

An utterance of conventional notions or beliefs; a hackneyed expression.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

An utterance of conventional notions or beliefs; a hackneyed expression.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

A method of doing or treating something that relies on an established, uncontroversial model or approach

A new situation comedy that simply uses an old formula.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

A method of doing or treating something that relies on an established, uncontroversial model or approach

A new situation comedy that simply uses an old formula.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

A symbolic representation of the composition or of the composition and structure of a compound.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

A symbolic representation of the composition or of the composition and structure of a compound.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

The compound so represented.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

The compound so represented.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

A prescription of ingredients in fixed proportion; a recipe.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

A prescription of ingredients in fixed proportion; a recipe.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

A liquid food for infants, containing most of the nutrients in human milk.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

A liquid food for infants, containing most of the nutrients in human milk.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

(Mathematics) A statement, especially an equation, of a fact, rule, principle, or other logical relation.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

(Mathematics) A statement, especially an equation, of a fact, rule, principle, or other logical relation.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

Formula(Sports) A set of specifications, including engine displacement, fuel capacity, and weight, that determine a class of racing car.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulas

Formula(Sports) A set of specifications, including engine displacement, fuel capacity, and weight, that determine a class of racing car.

Apr 26, 2018

Formulae

Typically used in formal and classical contexts.

The research paper elucidated various chemical formulae.

Oct 03, 2023

Formulas

Inflection of formula

Apr 26, 2018

FAQs

Are "Formulas" and "Formulae" interchangeable?

Yes, but "Formulas" is American English, and "Formulae" is traditionally British English.

Oct 03, 2023

Can "Formulas" be used in formal writing?

Yes, it's acceptable in both formal and informal contexts in American English.

Oct 03, 2023

Is "Formulae" considered outdated?

Not necessarily, but it is seen as more classical and formal.

Oct 03, 2023

Can "Formulas" be used in scientific writing?

Absolutely, it's common in various disciplines in American English.

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Which is preferable for academic usage?

"Formulas" in American English and "Formulae" often in British English contexts.

Oct 03, 2023

Which term is used more frequently worldwide?

"Formulas" is likely encountered more due to the global influence of American English.

Oct 03, 2023

Is it incorrect to use "Formulae" in American English?

No, it's understood but less common than "Formulas."

Oct 03, 2023

Is "Formulae" a Latin pluralization?

Yes, "Formulae" adheres to traditional Latin plural forms.

Oct 03, 2023

Can "Formulas" and "Formulae" be used in mathematics?

Yes, both terms are applicable in mathematical contexts.

Oct 03, 2023

Which term is used in the scientific community?

Both, but “Formulas” might be seen more frequently in international contexts.

Oct 03, 2023

Can both terms be found in English dictionaries?

Yes, both "Formulas" and "Formulae" are recognized and defined.

Oct 03, 2023

Is one term more formal than the other?

"Formulae" might be perceived as slightly more formal or classical.

Oct 03, 2023

Are there contexts where one term is preferred over the other?

"Formulas" is typically preferred in modern contexts, while "Formulae" might be chosen for a traditional tone.

Oct 03, 2023

Can I use "Formulas" in British English writing?

Yes, but "Formulae" might be expected in formal or academic writing.

Oct 03, 2023

Which term should be used in international communication?

"Formulas" may be more universally understood and is often recommended.

Oct 03, 2023

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Author Spotlight

Written by

Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.