Compact Advanced Training Part 1: 3.6.- Writing: Language register and how to write an informal letter.

What do you think that is the style of each one of them?

Collaborative Opening Online Exercise

Language Registers:

1. Formal Register

Formal register is used in situations that are serious, official, ceremonial, or academic. It requires attention to grammar rules, sentence structure, and vocabulary. It avoids contractions (like "can't") and slang.

Characteristics:

Complete, well-structured sentences
Use of sophisticated vocabulary and technical terms
Passive voice is often used
Objective tone (emotions are minimized)
No slang or idiomatic expressions
Politeness formulas (e.g., "I would like to request...")

Contexts:

Academic essays and research papers
Official speeches
Business correspondence
Legal documents
Formal ceremonies

Example:
"I am writing to inform you that your application has been approved."

2. Informal Register

Informal register is used when communicating with friends, family, or in relaxed environments. It mirrors natural conversation and is often expressive and personal.

Characteristics:

Shorter, simpler sentence structures
Frequent use of contractions (e.g., "I'm," "they're")
Use of slang, idiomatic expressions, and everyday language
Personal tone (emotions and opinions are freely expressed)
May include incomplete sentences or pauses
Active voice is preferred

Contexts:

Text messages and social media posts
Friendly emails or letters
Conversations with peers or family
Casual interviews or podcasts

Example:
"Hey! Just wanted to let you know you got the job! Congrats!"

3. Neutral Register

Neutral register is neither overly formal nor too casual. It aims for clear, straightforward, and objective communication. It avoids slang but doesn't sound pompous.

Characteristics:

Simple, clear language
Focus on facts or instructions rather than emotions
No use of slang or heavy technical jargon
Balanced tone: polite but not overly formal
Can be used in both spoken and written communication

Contexts:

News reporting (especially factual news)
Instruction manuals
Public announcements
Business emails (depending on the audience)
Textbooks (especially at lower academic levels)

Example:
"Please submit your completed form by Friday at noon."

References in APA 7 Format:

Crystal, D. (2003). English as a global language (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.

Joos, M. (1967). The five clocks. Harcourt, Brace & World.

Biber, D., Conrad, S., & Leech, G. (2002). Longman student grammar of spoken and written English. Pearson Education.

Trudgill, P. (2000). Sociolinguistics: An introduction to language and society (4th ed.). Penguin Books.

Feature	Formal	Informal	Neutral
Sentence style	Complex, structured	Short, flexible	Simple and straightforward
Vocabulary	Sophisticated, precise	Colloquial, slang	Standard, common words
Tone	Objective, impersonal	Personal, emotional	Factual, balanced
Use	Academic, professional settings	Personal conversations	Public communication, instructions
Example	"I would appreciate your reply."	"Drop me a line!"	"Please respond soon."