格式 (gé shì) means 'format'—the standardized structure, layout, or arrangement of information in writing, digital documents, data, or presentations. The character 格 (gé) originally means 'grid', 'pattern', or 'standard', while 式 (shì) means 'form', 'style', or 'formula'. Together, they convey the idea of a prescribed, consistent way of organizing content. This word is widely used in office, academic, and technical contexts—for example, when submitting a resume, formatting a report, or setting up a spreadsheet.

You’ll encounter 格式 in instructions like '请按统一格式填写' (Please fill this out using the standard format) or in software menus (e.g., '文件 → 另存为 → 选择格式'). It’s neutral in register—common in both formal documents and everyday digital life—but rarely used for physical objects or natural phenomena. Unlike English 'format', which can also be a verb, 格式 is strictly a noun in Chinese; to express 'to format', you’d use 动词 such as 设置格式 (set the format) or 调整格式 (adjust the format).