In Japanese/Okinawan Karate they are called Kata. In Chinese martial arts they are Taolu. In Korean Taek Won Do they are Poomsae. In America we often use the translation 'form' so people can understand it better and are more comfortable using their own language. It is all the same idea. The sequence of moves of course are different and particular to each style though.

Kata & forms are the same thing! One is Japanese (Datas) and the other is used mostly in Chinese Martial Arts (Forms) I was a practioner of of Chinese Martial Art known as Hung Gao Fu Hawk) it may not be spelled correctly but in English. is translated loosely as "The Tiger & Crane Style" There are "6" different forms in this particular style...each progressing to a more difficult degree of proficiency. It takes years to obtain and that is part of the lure of the martial arts...to continue to achieve that level of proficiency. the same is also the goal of the "Kata!"

Just to add, even if it is after the fact, "kata" has the same character as the word "katachi", meaning shape, mold or form. So in essence, a "form" would be a correct translation of kata.

Kata, forms and ball room dancing are all the same with ball room dancing being the most practical for fighting.

Yes, pretty much. Kata are Japanese forms performed in karate. Other martial arts also have forms, but with different names. For example, taekwondo forms are called either tul or poomsae.