Formal English and informal English - BBC English Masterclass

Introduction

This tutorial will help you understand the differences between formal and informal English. Knowing when and how to use each style can significantly impact your communication, especially in professional settings. By following the steps outlined here, you'll learn to adjust your language based on context, making your English more effective and appropriate.

Step 1: Recognize Vocabulary Differences

• Informal Vocabulary: Common words and phrasal verbs are typical in informal English.
  • Example: "find out"
• Formal Vocabulary: Use more precise and sophisticated language.
  • Replace "find out" with "enquire."
  • Instead of "jobs," use "vacancies."

Action: When writing formally, choose words that convey your message clearly and are more suitable for the context.

Step 2: Avoid Abbreviations and Contractions

• Informal Language: Abbreviations and contractions are common.
  • Example: "at the mo" (at the moment), "uni" (university)
• Formal Language: Avoid these shortened forms.
  • Use "currently" instead of "at the mo."
  • Use "university" instead of "uni."

Action: Make your writing more formal by using full words and phrases.

Step 3: Use Passive Voice Appropriately

• Informal Language: Active voice is often preferred.
  • Example: "They promoted me."
• Formal Language: Passive voice can lend a more professional tone.
  • Change to "I was promoted."

Action: Consider using passive structures to emphasize the action rather than the subject when writing formally.

Step 4: Construct Complex Sentences

• Informal Language: Short, simple sentences are common.
  • Example: "I am enthusiastic. I work hard. I pay attention to detail."
• Formal Language: Use more complex sentence structures.
  • Combine sentences: "I am an enthusiastic person who works hard and pays attention to detail."

Action: When writing formally, use relative pronouns and linking words to create more sophisticated sentence structures.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinctions between formal and informal English can enhance your communication skills. By focusing on vocabulary, avoiding contractions, using passive voice, and constructing complex sentences, you can improve your writing for various contexts. To practice further, consider exploring resources like BBC Learning English for exercises on formal and informal language.