Formal and Informal Language
The use of formal or informal language depends on the context, the relationship, and the level of
professionalism required between the people communicating. In professional settings, academic
writing, or when addressing someone in authority, it's generally more appropriate to use formal
expressions. Informal expressions are typically used in casual conversations among friends, family, or
peers.
Formal and informal expressions vary in tone, style, and level of formality. Here are some examples to
illustrate the differences:
Formal Expressions:
1. Greetings:
Good morning/afternoon/evening, Mr. Smith.
How do you do?
2. Requests:
Could you please provide me with the necessary documents?
I would appreciate it if you could attend the meeting tomorrow.
3. Apologies:
I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.
Please accept my apologies for the oversight.
4. Job Interview:
I am writing to express my interest in the advertised position.
I believe my qualifications make me a suitable candidate for the role.
5. Business Communication:
We would like to propose a formal meeting to discuss the contract terms.
Kindly find attached the report for your perusal.
Informal Expressions:
1. Greetings:
Hey, John! What's up?
Hi there! How's it going?
2. Requests:
Can you pass me the salt, please?
Mind helping me out with this?
3. Apologies:
Sorry about that, I didn't mean to interrupt.
My bad, I forgot to call you back.
4. Casual Conversation:
So, what do you do for a living?
Guess what happened to me today!
5. Text Messages:
LOL, that was hilarious!
Thx for the info, appreciate it!
Homework Assignment: Choose a topic and write two short paragraphs: one in formal
language and the other in informal language. The paragraphs will be shared in the next
session.
Exercise: Transforming Speech Styles
1. Informal to Formal:
Transform the following informal sentences into formal language.
a. "Hey, can you pass me the book over there?"
b. "I wanna know what happened at the meeting."
c. "Could you tell me where the nearest restroom is?"
d. "What's up? How's your day going?"
2. Formal to Informal:
Transform the following formal sentences into informal language.
a. "I would like to request your presence at the upcoming conference."
b. "It is imperative that you adhere to the established guidelines."
c. "I am writing to inform you of the changes to the project timeline."
d. "We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to your prompt response."
Answers:
1. Informal to Formal:
a. "Could you please pass me the book over there?"
b. "I would like to know what transpired during the meeting."
c. "Would you be able to inform me about the location of the nearest restroom?"
d. "Hello, how are you? How is your day progressing?"
2. Formal to Informal:
a. "Hey, I'd love for you to come to the conference."
b. "Make sure you follow the rules."
c. "I wanted to let you know about the changes to the project timeline."
d. "Thanks for your help! Looking forward to hearing from you soon."
