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Vocabulary and Language Use
Quick questions on Formal and informal language: N(A)-Level English
3short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is register is matching language to the situation?Show answer
"Register" simply means the level of formality you use. The same idea can be said formally or informally: "I am writing to enquire about the trip" versus "I just wanna ask about the trip." Neither is wrong in itself; what matters is whether it fits the reader and the purpose. A formal letter needs formal language; a message to a close friend can be relaxed.
What is keep your register consistent?Show answer
Pick a register and stay with it. The common slip is starting formally and sliding into casual language partway through: "I am writing to complain about the service. It was super annoying!" The phrase "super annoying" breaks the formal tone.
What is contractions where they do not belong?Show answer
"I'm" and "don't" suit a friendly note but look casual in a formal letter. Spell them out.
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