Formal English and informal English - BBC English Masterclass

Summary

In this Masterclass from BBC Learning English, Sian explores the key differences between formal and informal English. She emphasizes that using the appropriate language style is essential, much like dressing appropriately for an occasion. Through an example email, Sian identifies four informal features: vocabulary choices, abbreviations, sentence structure, and the use of passive versus active voice. She provides suggestions for making informal language more formal, highlighting the importance of clarity and professionalism in written communication. Viewers are encouraged to practice these concepts further on the BBC Learning English website.

Takeaways

• 😀 Formal and informal English can feel like different languages.
• 😀 Using inappropriate language can create a bad impression, just like wearing shorts to a job interview.
• 😀 The script highlights an email to demonstrate the differences between formal and informal language.
• 😀 Informal vocabulary often includes common words and phrasal verbs, which may not be suitable for formal writing.
• 😀 Replacing informal terms like 'find out' with formal equivalents like 'enquire' is recommended.
• 😀 Abbreviations and contractions are more acceptable in informal contexts but should be avoided in formal writing.
• 😀 Passive voice is often preferred in formal writing to maintain a level of professionalism.
• 😀 Short, simple sentences are common in informal language; formal writing benefits from more complex sentence structures.
• 😀 Using linkers and relative pronouns can help create more sophisticated sentences in formal writing.
• 😀 Viewers are encouraged to visit bbclearningenglish.com for more information and practice on formal and informal English.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the Masterclass presented by Sian?

The Masterclass focuses on the differences between formal and informal English.

How can using the wrong level of formality in language affect impression?

Using language that is too formal or too informal can give a bad impression, similar to wearing inappropriate clothing for an interview.

What example does Sian use to illustrate informal language in an email?

Sian refers to an email where the writer uses phrases like 'at the mo' and 'uni,' which are too informal for a job inquiry.

What is the first feature that makes the email informal?

The first feature is the choice of vocabulary, such as using 'find out' instead of a more formal term like 'enquire.'

What is recommended to replace the informal phrase 'at the mo'?

It is recommended to replace 'at the mo' with the more formal term 'currently.'

Why is it suggested to use passive voice in formal writing?

Using passive structures in formal writing can make sentences sound more appropriate and polished, as illustrated by changing 'they promoted me' to 'I was promoted.'

What kind of sentence structure is preferred in formal English?

Formal English typically uses more complex sentence structures rather than short, simple sentences.

How can one enhance a simple sentence to make it more formal?

One can enhance a simple sentence by adding relative pronouns or linkers, for example, changing 'I am an enthusiastic person' to 'I am an enthusiastic person who works hard and pays attention to detail.'

What should one avoid when writing formal letters regarding abbreviations?

One should avoid using abbreviations and shortened forms, such as 'uni' for university, in formal letters.

Where can viewers practice their formal and informal English skills?

Viewers are encouraged to visit the BBC Learning English website for more information and to practice their skills.