LEÇON · 1BAC
Formal and informal language
Objectifs d’apprentissage
Identify differences between formal and informal registers.
Adapt greetings, vocabulary and sentence structure to audience and purpose.
Introduction
Effective communication depends not only on grammar but also on choosing a suitable register for the reader and situation.
Cours
Formal writing usually avoids slang, uses complete sentences and makes requests politely and clearly. Informal language is common among friends and may include contractions, familiar expressions and shorter sentences. Neither register is automatically better: the correct choice depends on the audience, purpose and context. A message to a school administrator should normally be more formal than a text to a close friend.
Exemples guidés
- Informal: “Can you send me the notes?” More formal: “Could you please send me the notes when you have a chance?”
Exercices d’application
- Choose an appropriate opening and closing for an email asking a teacher for clarification about homework.
Correction
Possible opening: “Dear Mr/Ms …,” and closing: “Thank you for your time. Kind regards, …” The exact form depends on the relationship and local conventions.
À retenir
Match register to audience, use polite and precise wording, and avoid confusing formality with unnecessary complexity.
Référence pédagogique
Leçon pédagogique originale ; vérifier l'alignement avec le programme officiel en vigueur et les consignes de l'enseignant.
Consulter la référence