die Formsache
formality
A matter that only needs to be dealt with for formal or required reasons and usually has little substantive importance.
EXAMPLE
Die Unterschrift ist nur noch eine Formsache.
The signature is just a formality now.
die Formsache
formality
die Formsache, die Formsachen
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Meanings
Forms
At a glance
| gender | feminine die |
|---|---|
| plural | die Formsachen |
| genitive | der Formsache |
The four cases
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | die Formsache | die Formsachen |
| accusative | die Formsache | die Formsachen |
| dative | der Formsache | den Formsachen |
| genitive | der Formsache | der Formsachen |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
Usage tips
Compound word
'Formsache' is made up of 'Form' (form) and 'Sache' (matter). It therefore refers to a matter where completing the formal requirements is the main concern.
EXAMPLE
Die Genehmigung ist nach dem positiven Gutachten nur noch eine Formsache.
After the positive assessment, the approval is just a formality.
Register and style
'Formsache' belongs more to formal or bureaucratic language and is often used in news reports, administrative texts, and official conversations.
EXAMPLE
Laut Behörde ist die Verlängerung des Visums eine reine Formsache.
According to the authorities, extending the visa is a mere formality.
Typical collocations
In the sense of a purely formal matter, 'Formsache' is often used with 'nur noch' (just), 'reine' (mere), or 'lediglich' (only). The expression 'nur noch eine Formsache sein' (to be just a formality) is especially common.
EXAMPLE
Die Abmeldung ist nur noch eine Formsache und dauert höchstens fünf Minuten.
Deregistering is just a formality and takes no more than five minutes.
In real life
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