Formal and informal styles

How to use?

Formal language

• may be used, for example, at official functions, and in debates and ceremonies.

Formal language is characterised by the following features:

• complex sentences• use of reported speech• indirect questions• use of modals such as could and would rather than

can and will• full forms (should not) instead of contractions

(shouldn’t)• frequent use of the passive voice• limited use of phrasal verbs• frequent use of long words with Latin or Greek roots

Formal writing is probably the most difficult type of writing. It is impersonal, meaning it is not written for a specific person and is written

without emotion.

Some kinds of writing are always written in formal English.

Formal writing includes:

• Business Letters• Letters of complaint• Some essays• Reports• Official speeches• Announcements• Professional emails

Neutral language

• is used with non-emotional topics and information.

Neutral language is characterised by:

• simpler sentences

• active rather than passive voice

• factual rather than emotional language

• limited use of complex language

• limited use of slang

Neutral writing is not necessarily formal or informal. It is not usually positive or negative. A neutral register is used to deliver

facts. 

Some writings are written in a neutral register. This means they are not specifically formal or informal. 

Writing in the natural language register includes:

• Reviews• Articles• Some letters• Some essays• Technical writing

Informal language

• is used in informal situations with friends, fellow workers, and members of the family.

Informal language is characterised by:

• simple, often grammatically incomplete, sentences

• active voice

• emotional language

• personal opinions

• humour

• slang, idioms and cliches

• phrasal verbs

• exclamations

Informal writing is written in the way we talk to our friends and family. We use informal writing when we are writing to someone we know very

well.

Some kinds of writing can be written in an informal style.

Informal writing includes:

• Personal e-mails• Short notes• Friendly letters• Most blogs• Diaries and journals• Phone texts

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