FORMATIVE Synonyms: 9 Similar and Opposite Words

formative

adjective

ˈfȯr-mə-tiv

Definition of formative

as in creative

having a role in deciding something's final form a teacher who was a formative influence on generations of students

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of formative At face value, young men exercising should not be reason to sound the alarms, and yet there is something treacherous about men in their formative years placing physical beauty as the ultimate expression of self-actualization. — José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 27 Aug. 2026 Whitney Houston’s powerhouse version stands alone, but Dolly’s quieter, mournful ode to her collaboration with Porter Wagoner is the artful, formative sketch to a colossal mural. — Los Angeles Times, 25 Aug. 2026 According to his social media, Reales Dominguez spent many of his formative years in Oakland and eventually made his way to Castlemont. — Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 20 Aug. 2026 The duo’s bond was irrevocably broken during Thomas’s formative years in large part due to Alfred’s deeply unstable and emotionally taxing profession. — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for formative

Recent Examples of Synonyms for formative

Adjective

Adding to the resort’s already extensive list of experiences—ranging from creative expression, fitness, and integrative wellbeing to outdoor adventure, yoga, and nourishment—are several new offerings.

— Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 28 Aug. 2026
The illusion of molten steel was basically water and mineral oil mixed with a little powdered sugar; creative lighting and heaters placed below the cameras—plus a few CGI sparks in the background—did the rest.

— ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of creative

Adjective

To become a consistently productive defense this season, the Bears need a big developmental jump from Booker and another impactful season from Sweat.

— Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 30 Aug. 2026
Cam Gill earned a pair of fumble recoveries, true, and had a decently productive preseason.

— Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of productive

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formations

formative

formats

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“Formative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formative. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of formative

adjective

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