The practice, quality, or system of adhering strictly to formulas, rules, or established procedures without flexibility or originality.
From 'formula' + '-ism' suffix (Greek -ismos). The '-ism' suffix creates an abstract noun describing a philosophy, practice, or system based on formulas.
Religious reformers like Martin Luther criticized 'formulism' in the church—the idea that exact rituals and procedures mattered more than genuine belief, sparking the Protestant Reformation.
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