Formal vs. Informal LanguageWhen to use which?

Formal Language Is used when you want to make a

good impression on people in respected positions. You speak in a more traditional way and use longer forms of words when you want to be formal

Formal Language with Teachers Principals Counselors Neighbors Firemen, Policemen

Who else?

Informal Language Is used when you talk to peers or

adults whom you feel close to. You might speak in a more relaxed way, by using slang and shorter forms of words, when you want to be informal. You should continue to be respectful when being informal.

Informal Language with Your best friend Your sister Your babysitter Your cousin

Who else?

Change to Formal Hi Sure! Will ya? Ya gotta do it! What do you want?

Change to Informal I would be delighted!

I certainly appreciate this.

It has been a pleasure meeting you.

Could you possibly give me a hand with this project?

Formal or Informal? You call your dad at work and his

boss answers the phone. You are asking someone out on a

date You are talking to your parents at

the dinner table You are trying to convince the

assistant principal to change the date of the detention you were given.

Formal Language Looks like

Standing or sitting straighter than usual

Sounds like “Hello, Mrs. Cadle” “Please, may I…” “Nice to meet you.”

Informal Looks like

Standing or sitting in a relaxed position

Sounds like Using slang

“Hi” “What are ya doin’?” “What’s new?”

Formal vs. InformalWhen to use which?

Wisdom is knowing what to do next; virtue is doing it.

David Starr Jordan