formation
for-MAY-shun
/fɔːrˈmeɪ.ʃən/
The arrangement or deployment of people or things, especially in a specific pattern.
A formation provides the structure within which tactics and maneuvers take place.
The story behind the word. Rooted in the Latin 'formatio', meaning 'a shaping'. In sports, a formation is the physical shape a team takes on the field, a temporary structure designed to maximize strengths and hide weaknesses.
Word relationships
- arrangement: Arrangement is general; formation implies a specific, often functional, shape.
- disarray: Disarray is a state of confusion or lack of organization.
Commonly confused with
- alignment: Alignment is being in a straight line; formation is the overall shape.
Word family
- form (verb): To bring together parts or combine to create something.
- formative (adjective): Serving to form something, especially character.
Collocations
- defensive formation
- tight formation
- battle formation
Example sentences
- "The birds flew in a perfect V-formation to save energy during their long migration." Nature
- "The team's defensive formation made it impossible for the strikers to break through." Soccer/Football
Memory hook
A 'Formation' is the 'Form' that the 'Nation' (or team) takes. The shape of the team.
When not to use
Don't use it for a random crowd; it implies a deliberate, organized shape.
Fun facts
- In American football, the 'Shotgun' formation was named because the quarterback stands back like a hunter with a shotgun.
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