Formulierung (f)

fɔʁmuˈliːʁʊŋ

Formulierung captures the specific way an idea or statement is put into words. Depending on register and context, it renders as wording, phrasing, or formulation in English.

1. wording

The most common equivalent when referring to the exact words chosen in a document, contract, or public statement.

Die Formulierung im Vertrag ist missverständlich und sollte überarbeitet werden.
The wording in the contract is ambiguous and should be revised.
Wir haben lange über die richtige Formulierung für die Pressemitteilung gestritten.
We argued for a long time over the right wording for the press release.
Kannst du mir bei der Formulierung dieses Absatzes helfen?
Can you help me with the wording of this paragraph?

2. phrasing

Emphasizes the manner and tone of expression rather than the exact words; often used when discussing whether something sounds right or appropriate.

Die Formulierung klingt zu förmlich für eine interne E-Mail.
The phrasing sounds too formal for an internal email.
Er bat mich, eine weniger aggressive Formulierung zu wählen.
He asked me to choose a less aggressive phrasing.

3. formulation [formal] · academic, legal, policy

Used in academic, legal, or policy contexts when a precise proposition, theory, or rule is being crafted.

Die Formulierung des Gesetzentwurfs nahm mehrere Monate in Anspruch.
The formulation of the bill took several months.
Die Wissenschaftlerin arbeitete an einer schärferen Formulierung ihrer These.
The researcher was working on a more precise formulation of her thesis.

Notes

Watch out for formulation in English: it doubles as a term for a physical compound or preparation (e.g. 'a new drug formulation'), meaning Zubereitung or Rezeptur in German, not Formulierung in the linguistic sense. Always check the context when reading formulation in a scientific or pharmaceutical text.

Synonyms

Wortwahl Ausdrucksweise Wortlaut

Related phrases

formulieren Umformulierung Ausdrucksmittel Sprachgebrauch Wortwahl Redaktion