1. Strict adherence to prescribed forms, rules, or ceremonies, often at the expense of content or meaning
The judge criticized the lawyer's formalismo in the courtroom procedure.
O juiz criticou o formalismo do advogado no procedimento judicial.
2. In art and literature, emphasis on form and style over substance or emotional content
The artist's work was characterized by excessive formalismo rather than genuine expression.
A obra do artista caracterizava-se por um formalismo excessivo em vez de uma expressão genuína.
3. Overly rigid attention to formal requirements or bureaucratic procedures
The company's formalismo made it difficult to implement innovative solutions.
O formalismo da empresa dificultava a implementação de soluções inovadoras.