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Formal Vs. Informal Writing

Formal Vs. Informal Writing. When it comes to writing in English, there are two main styles of writing – formal and informal. Consider these two examples:.

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Formal Vs. Informal Writing

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  1. Formal Vs. Informal Writing

  2. When it comes to writing in English, there are two main styles of writing – formal and informal. Consider these two examples:

  3. Example 1: This is to inform you that your book has been rejected by our publishing company as it was not up to the required standard. In case you would like us to reconsider it, we would suggest that you go over it and make some necessary changes.Example 2: You know that book I wrote? Well, the publishing company rejected it. They thought it was awful. But hey, I did the best I could, and I think it was great. I’m not gonna redo it the way they said I should.

  4. The difference between the two is obvious. The first one is formal, and the second is informal. But what is it that makes them formal and informal?

  5. FORMAL • Avoid using colloquial words/expressions • Avoid contractions • (write out full words – cannot, will not, should not, etc.). • Write in third person – he, she, it, they, them • Avoid clichés • Avoid addressing readers using second person pronouns

  6. colloquial words/expressions = regional words or slang • Don’t use: • Ya’ll use you • Creamed use beat , unless you are cooking • bread use money, unless you are making a sandwich • catch some rays sunbath, unless you are fishing for sting rays

  7. Clichés = A cliché is a metaphor characterized by its overuse. • sadder but wiser • strong as an ox • six of one, half a dozen of the other • turnabout is fair play • Give peace a chance • take it or leave it

  8. Avoid using abbreviated words • (use full versions – like photograph, television, etc.) • Avoid imperative voice • Use passive voice • (e.g. It has been noticed that….) • Longer and more complex sentences are preferred • State your points confidently and offer your argument firm support

  9. Informal • May use colloquial words/expressions • kids, guy, awesome, a lot, etc. • May use contractions • (can’t, won’t, shouldn’t, etc.). • May use first, second, or third person. • May use clichés • May address readers using second person pronouns

  10. May use abbreviated words • (photo, TV, etc) • May use imperative voice • May use active voice • May use short and simple sentences. • Difficulty of subject may be acknowledged and empathy shown to the reader..

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