形式

けいしき

form, formality, format

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Understanding 形式 (xíngshì)

The word 形式 primarily refers to the 'form' or 'shape' of something, often emphasizing its external or outward appearance. It can also mean a 'style' or 'pattern' in which something is done or presented.

Common Uses

  1. Physical or visual form: Describing the shape or outward structure of objects or documents, e.g., 合同形式 (the form of a contract).
  2. Style or mode: Referring to methods or types, such as 艺术表现形式 (forms of artistic expression).
  3. Going through the motions: Used idiomatically to describe actions done only for appearance without substance, e.g., 形式.

Collocations and Patterns

Usage Notes

When using 形式, consider whether you are emphasizing the external appearance or the procedural style. It often contrasts with 实质 (substance). For example, 形式 implies a lack of real content or sincerity.

Avoid confusing 形式 with 形状, which strictly means physical shape without the broader sense of style or procedure.

Example Sentences

The form of this contract must comply with the company's regulations.

There are many diverse forms of artistic expression.

He was just going through the motions and did not really complete the task.