形 式 上(けいしきじょう)

けいしきじょう

adverb

formally; on paper; as a formality; in form

1. formally; on paper; as a formality; in form

Indicates that something is true in terms of official form or procedure, often implying that the reality may differ from what records or paperwork show. Common in business, legal, and bureaucratic contexts.

形式上(けいしきじょう)は問題(もんだい)ない。

There is no problem formally.

形式上(けいしきじょう)、書類(しょるい)にサインが必要(ひつよう)です。

As a formality, a signature on the document is required.

形式上(けいしきじょう)は退職(たいしょく)したことになっているが、実際(じっさい)はまだ働(はたら)いている。

On paper he has retired, but in reality he is still working.

An adverb meaning "in form" or "as a formality," often implying that the reality may differ from what official records or procedures show. Commonly used in business, legal, and bureaucratic contexts. Often paired with a contrasting statement about the actual situation.

Common patterns

形式上(けいしきじょう)は～だが: formally it is ~, but...
形式上(けいしきじょう)の手続(てつづ)き: a formality; formal procedure
形式上(けいしきじょう)問題(もんだい)ない: no problem formally/on paper

Similar words

名目上(めいもくじょう) — nominally; in name only (focuses on titles/labels rather than procedures)
表向(おもてむ)き — outwardly; officially (what is shown to others)
建前(たてまえ)として — as a public stance (social facade)

Related Words

Compare: 名目上(めいもくじょう) (nominally)

Compare: 表向(おもてむ)き (outwardly)

general

Added 2026.4.5 7:19 · Revised 2026.10.2 9:20

22000/22071_keishikijou