Formal vs informal
Choosing the right register for emails and essays.
The rules
- Formal writing prefers single Latinate verbs: contact, receive, require.
- "I am writing to enquire/complain/request" are standard formal openers.
- Academic register avoids slang ("loads", "reckon") and vague intensifiers.
- Formal writing spells out negatives: "do not", "cannot".
- "We would appreciate…" is polite-formal; "wanna/gotta" are spoken only.
- "Yours faithfully" when you don't know the name; "Yours sincerely" when you do.
Examples
- contact
- (Formal email) I am writing to enquire about the delayed delivery.
- Many people consider it inadvisable.
- Avoid them, write "do not", "cannot".
- (Formal) We would appreciate a prompt reply.
- Yours faithfully,
Quick check
Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1.Which is the formal version of "get in touch"?
2.(Formal email) I am writing to _____ about the delayed delivery.
3.Which sentence suits an academic essay?
4.Contractions (don't, can't) in a formal report:
5.(Formal) We _____ appreciate a prompt reply.