20 Examples of Formal and Informal Language
Miscellanea / / November 09, 2021
Formal and Informal Language
When establishing a communication, the formal or informal language Which speakers use will depend on the context, the relationship between those involved, the topic, and the purpose with which the speech act is initiated.
In more formal contexts or when the speakers do not know each other well, the register of formal language, which establishes a series of particular linguistic codes, such as the use of "you" or the preference for correct forms of enunciation and pronunciation. For instance: I am writing to you to request if you would like to provide information regarding schedules and fees for next year's courses.
On the contrary, the record of informal language It is used when the speakers have a very trusting relationship, such as in conversations between family or friends. In this case, the language is colloquial, little elaborate, spontaneous, warm and very expressive. For instance: Tomorrow we go to the movies. How about?
Characteristics of formal and informal language
Formal language | Informal language |
Meet the rules of grammar and spelling. | It does not always comply with the syntactic and spelling rules. In orality, pronunciation can be imprecise. |
Sentences can be longer and more complex. | Sentences can contain irregular constructions. |
Use a large and complex or specialized vocabulary. | Use reduced and repetitive vocabulary. |
It does not admit vulgarisms, idioms or fillers. | You can use vulgarisms, idioms and fillers. |
It refers to the receiver using the pronoun "you." | They refer to the receiver using the pronoun "you." |
Avoid redundancies or repetitions with suitable lexical alternatives. | There may be interruptions and repetitions. |
The information is presented in a logical and structured way. | The speech is spontaneous and disorganized. |
Examples of formal language
- The directors of the association have the honor of inviting you to the V Annual Gala, which will take place on the 25th of this month.
- The Salcedo and Branch families are pleased to announce the marriage of Ignacio and Margarita, which will be held on June 10 at 6:00 pm.
- We allow ourselves to request that you provide us, strictly confidential, with the reports you have about the firm mentioned in the attached sheet.
- Thank you in advance, I greet you very kindly.
- We kindly ask parents to send, in a timely manner, the permission with a duplicate corresponding to each student.
- Excuse me sir, could you tell me what time it is?
- I believe that an interview will be the appropriate framework to develop aspects of my profile that may be of interest to you.
- I respectfully address you, with the aim of appreciating the great opportunity for personal development that the company has offered me by granting me the position of head of department.
- If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact me again.
- Does the lady want to see the wine list?
Examples of informal language
- How are you doing, Ricardo?
- Isn't that guy in the white shirt your brother?
- Manito, I really like you.
- Let's go to the movies, do you want to come?
- I always tell you the same thing: you must stop beating around the bush and take the bull by the antlers.
- That I tell you no, that is not how you say.
- Well? Who speaks?
- After such a kick, Ricardo limped off the field.
- Maria, I wanted to invite you to the party I'm having on Friday night. Don't fail me, okay? Greetings.
- See you later.
She continues with: