Formal & Informal Language In Business Communication

There are two types of standard language. The language we speak at home, with friends is informal. It is like casual clothes which people use on informal occasions. Formal language, on the other hand, is used in offices, business, and other formal occasions. It is like a suit or dress for public and formal situations.

Formal Language

We use formal language when we are dealing with serious business affairs. The situations which call for it include the following:

1. Application for jobs
2. Letters to public and utility companies
3. Business Letters
4. Business reports & memos
5. Public discussions of serious issues
6. Formal reports (e.g. accident reports)
7. Oral & written reports
8. Class discussion
9. Discussions in conferences, seminars, assemblies, courts e.t.c.

In formal language we avoid slang and informal words and sentences. Here we are more respectful, courteous, reserved, and careful. We use more resources of the language because it has more synonyms. Audience takes the subject seriously and pays solemn attention to the subject.

Informal Language

It is spoken language. It is used in private conversation and we use it in personal letters. Informal language has all purpose words. For example boss is all-purpose word which is used informally to mean manager , director, employer, owner, gang leader or supervisor. It may be funny which may make us smile, such as cheaters which as a slang means eyes glasses.

This language is often used when you are in a hurry. To do so you use contractions, such as I' m, I've, she's, It's, we're, 'em. We are informal, free, and close to the reader or listener.