godan verb (-ru), intransitive verb
stand on ceremony; be formal; adhere to formalities
Describes a person or atmosphere that is stiffly formal, often in a way that feels rigid or uncomfortable. Can be used for events, speech, or behavior.
彼はいつも格式ばっていて、話しにくい。
He is always so formal that it's hard to talk to him.
格式ばった
I'm not good at stiff, formal greetings.