Formal, Semi-Formal, & Informal English
Why is it important?
Would you wear this to a job interview? No, because it's too informal.
Would you wear this to the beach? No, because it's too formal.
In the same way, using English that is too formal or too informal for the situation can cause a bad impression.
credits to www.espressoenglish.net © Shayna Oliveira 2014
Semi-Formal English
1. Phrasal verbs & contractions = OK
Could you look over this report?
look over = review and check for errors
She came up with a great idea.
To learn phrasal verbs,
I'm available on Friday morning.
The directors weren't happy.
take the Phrasal Verbs
This project is on the back burner.
in Conversation Course!
2. Some idioms are OK, but avoid slang and text speak
in the red = no money, negative cash flow
on the back burner = not a priority at the moment
We're operating in the red.
Informal (inviting your best friend): "Hey, wanna grab a bite to eat?"
Semi-formal (inviting your boss): "Would you like to join me for lunch?"
Semi-formal: "Hello, how are you?"
Informal: "Wassup?"
commands: Say "Could you please call me later?" and not just "Call me
Say "I'd like..." instead of "I want..."
When making requests, use "could you" and "please," don't just give
later."
I'm of a different opinion. / I see it differently.
Another part of polite English is making criticisms and negative comments in
an indirect way:
You're wrong.
I'm afraid you're mistaken.
I disagree.
This is terrible work.
I'd prefer...
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