2
general::
noun group of signs/letters/numbers ADJ. complex, complicated | simple | algebraic, chemical, mathematical, scientific VERB + FORMULA devise, work out A simple mathematical formula has been devised to allow you to calculate the interest due. | apply, use PREP. ~ for Do you know the formula for finding the area of a circle? method of solving a problem ADJ. good, magic, successful, winning | time-honoured, traditional | face-saving The government was forced to find a face-saving formula to cover its misjudgement. | peace No one has yet come up with a successful peace formula. | political VERB + FORMULA have No one has a magic formula for keeping youngsters away from crime. | come up with, devise, find, hit on, provide, work out We think we might have hit on a winning formula. PREP. ~ for What is their formula for success?
Oxford Collocations Dictionary