Page 8 Formal Language


Levels of Language


The level of English you use in writing gives others specific impressions of you.

With a close friend, you probably use a casual tone and slang.

For essays and communication with teachers, formal language is appropriate. In your assignments, please follow Standard English rules of grammar, spelling, and punctuation.


In a formal essay, avoid slang, abstract, overly-formal language, colloquialisms, and jargon that obscure your message.

Watch a video about colloquial language:

  1. Slang (non-standard, colourful words or phrases); colloquial (cul-low-kwee-ul)

    Examples of slang from the 1930s

      • blow your wig - get excited

      Johnny, don't blow your wig.
      • grifter - con man

      I think that grifter cheated me out of money.

  2. Jargon (specialized vocabulary used by a profession, trade, or group)

    A brain bucket is a helmet to mountain bikers.

  3. Dialect (a local language with its own vocabulary and sentence structure), such as Canadianisms or Newfoundlandese.

      • eh?
      • gut-foundered - very hungry or famished

  4. Informal (mainly incomplete sentences, some contractions, and slang)

    I don't want to talk about this anymore, ok?

  5. Formal (precise words, no slang, no contractions, and complete sentences)

    I do not desire to share my thoughts about this particular subject at this time.

    A bird in hand is safer than one overhead.

2.17 Self-Assessment: Formal Language



 Self-Assessment

Read the following email messages a teacher received and identify whether the students have used formal or informal English. Is the message clear? Why or why not?






  Student A:

What book was it?


Student B:


On Assignment 1-1, Section 1, we make something to represent ourselves. I'm making a collage, so would I take a picture and attach it to the Submission Box?


Student C:



Good morning: Is it possible to get your phone number again? I forgot it and I need your help with Question 5 in Assignment 1-6. I am confused about what the following words mean.... Have a great weekend.


Student D:


Hey! I hAve a qeustion. I don't understand. Can U help with my assignment? BTW, Thx. I cant wait to get started.





Click here to check your answers.



Read the information about "conversation" on pages 123-126 of ResourceLines 7/8.



  Please contact your teacher if you have questions.