Source:Montano-Harmon, M. R. “Developing

English for Academic Purposes” California State University, Fullerton.

Five language registers Each level should be used in its

appropriate setting, as you consider Your Audience (who) Your Topic (what) Your Purpose (why) Your Location (where)

 You must control the use of language registers in order to enjoy success in every aspect and situation you encounter.

This style of communications RARELY or NEVER changes. It is “frozen” in time and

content. The Pledge of Allegiance

The Lord’s Prayer The Preamble to the U.S. Constitution

laws

Used in formal settings One-way in nature

Follows a commonly accepted format

Impersonal and formal Examples: speeches, sermons,

rhetorical statements and questions, pronouncements made by judges, and announcements.

Standard form of communication Users engage in a mutually-accepted

structure of speech. Professional discourse, such as when

strangers meet, or communications between a superior and a subordinate,

doctor and patient, teacher and student

This is informal language used by peers and friends. Slang, vulgarities, and

colloquialisms are normal. This is “group” language. One must be a member to

engage in this register, such as buddies, teammates, chats and emails, and blogs,

and letters to friends.

This communication style is private. It is reserved for close

family members or intimate people, such as husband and wife, boyfriend and girlfriend,

siblings, or parents and children.