as a matter of form

a matter of form

That which is done for the sake of procedure, formality, appearances, or the accepted norm, often implying a lack of usefulness or necessity. I know we already covered the chapter on social economics last week, but as a matter of form, let's review its key points before beginning today's lecture. The doctors weren't too worried about her illness, but as a matter of form they decided to keep her in the hospital overnight.

See also: form, matter, of

(do something) as a matter of ˈform

(do something) because it is polite, or because it is the usual way of doing something: We knew everyone agreed, but we had a vote as a matter of form. ♢ I need your signature, just as a matter of form.

See also: form, matter, of