formalisms

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.