The phrase "done as a formality" refers to the act or process of completing a task or following a procedure merely for the sake of fulfilling an obligation or satisfying a requirement, without genuine intention, effort, or meaningful impact. It entails engaging in an action to meet a predetermined protocol, convention, or customary practice, without any substantial commitment, significance, or interest in achieving a meaningful outcome.
When something is done as a formality, it implies that the action is carried out out of sheer necessity, adherence to rules, or societal expectations, rather than driven by a genuine desire or intention to accomplish a specific objective. This phrase often implies that the task or procedure has little practical purpose or effect, serving mainly as a box-ticking exercise or a token gesture.
While it may be tempting to put minimal effort or enthusiasm into tasks done as a formality, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential consequences or lack of consequences that may result from such an approach. On occasion, various procedures may be legally or socially mandatory, even if they have a reduced practical impact, and thus, completing them may still be necessary.
Overall, the phrase "done as a formality" reflects the notion of complying with obligatory actions or procedures, often with minimal effort or intention, due to their perceived inconsequentiality, routine nature, or lack of meaningful engagement.
