What is "pro forma"

also proforma, Latin, literally "for form's sake, by way of formality;" see pro- + form (n.).

a. For the sake of form only.

1. adj. as a formality only; "a one-candidate pro forma election" [syn: perfunctory]

2. adv. in a set manner without serious attention; "they answered my letter pro forma"; "he kissed her cheek perfunctorily" [syn: perfunctorily, as a formality]

The term pro forma ( Latin for "as a matter of form" or "for the sake of form") is most often used to describe a practice or document that is provided as a courtesy or satisfies minimum requirements, conforms to a norm or doctrine, tends to be performed perfunctorily or is considered a formality.