formalism

noun

1. 1

   Strict adherence to a given form of conduct, practice etc.

2. 2

   One of several alternative computational paradigms for a given theory.

3. 3

   An approach to interpretation and/or evaluation focused on the (usually linguistic) structure of a literary work rather than on the contexts of its origin or reception.

4. 4

   The tendency to elevate formal above expressive value in music, as in serialism.

5. 5

   A particular mathematical or scientific theory or description of a given state or effect.

6. 6

   A formal expression of a grammar; a formal grammar; a set of rules of syntax that, without reference to semantics, determine whether a sequence of symbols is a well-formed sentence in a given formal language.