Difference Between Formal and Informal English
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Hello to all English learners!
Today, we’re diving into a key aspect of mastering English: the difference between formal and informal language. Knowing when to use each type can significantly enhance your communication skills, whether you’re engaging in a casual conversation or delivering a professional presentation.
In our article, ‘List of Formal and Informal English Words,’ we’ve curated a comprehensive list of terms that are commonly used in everyday dialogue versus those suited for more serious or professional contexts. This resource will equip you with the vocabulary you need to navigate various situations effectively.
When to Use Formal and Informal English
Formal English is typically used in the following scenarios:
- Job Applications: When applying for a job, it’s important to use formal language to convey professionalism and respect.
- Academic Essays: Formal English is essential in academic writing to maintain a serious tone and provide clarity.
- Professional Communication: When interacting with people you don’t know well or in formal settings, such as business meetings or official correspondence, formal language is preferred.
Informal English is more appropriate in these contexts:
- Casual Conversations: Use informal language with friends, family, and acquaintances during relaxed, everyday interactions.
- Social Media: Informal language is commonly used on social media platforms where a more relaxed tone is acceptable.
Formal & Informal Word Alternatives
| Formal | Informal |
|---|---|
| Purchase | Buy |
| Approximately | About |
| Utilize | Use |
| Prior to | Before |
| Subsequently | Later |
| Therefore | So |
| Nevertheless | Nonetheless |
| Inquire | Ask |
| Accomplish | Do |
| Ascertain | Find out |
| Regarding | About |
| Terminate | End |
| In addition | Also |
| Consequently | As a result |
| Exhibit | Show |
| Request | Ask for |
| Inquire | Ask |
| Examine | Look at |
| Perceive | See |
| Consequently | So |
Check also:
250 Phrasal Verbs (Free PDF)
5 Free Books To Improve Your English
A Quick Way To Learn English Tenses (Free Pdf)
Formal & Informal Example Sentences
| Formal Example Sentences | Informal Example Sentences |
|---|---|
| It is essential to purchase the required materials. | You need to buy the stuff you need. |
| The meeting will commence at approximately 3:00 PM. | The meeting will start at about 3:00 PM. |
| We must utilize the available resources efficiently. | We have to use what we’ve got wisely. |
| I will arrive prior to the scheduled time. | I’ll come before the set time. |
| Subsequently, we will review the outcomes. | Later, we’ll go over the results. |
| Therefore, it is imperative to prepare in advance. | So, make sure you get ready ahead of time. |
| Nevertheless, we faced some obstacles along the way. | Nonetheless, we ran into a few problems. |
| Could you please inquire about the status of the project? | Can you ask how the project is going? |
| We aim to accomplish all the tasks on the list. | We want to do everything on the list. |
| Let’s ascertain if this is the correct answer. | Let’s find out if this is the right answer. |
| I need some information regarding the upcoming event. | I need info about the event that’s coming up. |
| The meeting will terminate at 5:00 PM. | The meeting will end at 5:00 PM. |
| In addition, we need to submit the required paperwork. | Also, we have to hand in the necessary documents. |
| Consequently, the sales figures have improved. | As a result, sales have gotten better. |
| The art exhibit showcases the works of renowned artists. | The art show displays stuff by famous artists. |
| I kindly request that you submit the report by Friday. | I’m asking you to turn in the report by Friday. |
| I would like to inquire about your availability. | I want to ask if you’re free. |
| The doctor will examine your condition thoroughly. | The doc will check you out carefully. |
| I perceive a change in your attitude. | I see that your attitude is different. |
| Consequently, our team has achieved great success. | So, our team has been really successful. |
Formal & Informal Word List
Formal & Informal Word List
| Formal | Informal |
|---|---|
| Acquire | Get |
| Assist | Help |
| Commence | Start |
| Conclude | End |
| Consume | Eat |
| Decease | Die |
| Demonstrate | Show |
| Depart | Leave |
| Desist | Stop |
| Distribute | Give out |
| Elucidate | Explain |
| Employed | Hired |
| Endeavor | Try |
| Facilitate | Make easier |
| Fascinating | Interesting |
| Frequent | Often |
| Genuine | Real |
| Hostile | Unfriendly |
| Inquire | Ask |
| Initiate | Start |
| Invest | Spend |
| Instruct | Teach |
| Maintain | Keep |
| Negligible | Tiny |
| Noteworthy | Important |
| Obtain | Get |
| Participate | Join |
| Purchase | Buy |
| Refrain | Stop |
| Request | Ask |
| Respond | Reply |
| Subsequent | Later |
| Terminate | End |
| Utilize | Use |
| Vast | Huge |
| Verify | Check |
| Vital | Essential |
| Withhold | Hold back |
| Commence | Begin |
| Ascertain | Find out |
| Concur | Agree |
| Conduct | Do |
| Disclose | Reveal |
| Discrepancy | Difference |
| Examine | Look at |
| Fulfill | Meet |
| Grateful | Thankful |
| Implement | Carry out |
| Influential | Important |
| Inhibit | Hinder |
| Intricate | Complicated |
| Mandatory | Required |
| Negotiate | Deal |
| Optimize | Improve |
| Proficient | Skilled |
| Reiterate | Repeat |
| Substantial | Large |
| Sufficient | Enough |
| Summarize | Sum up |
| Theoretically | In theory |
| Transpire | Happen |
| Valuable | Worthwhile |
