CREATED BY KATHRYN REILLY

Formal Language

Formal Language Basics

What is formal language? Formal language refers to words used in academic or

professional settings. These words tend to be more polite and conventional.

When should a writer use formal language? In academic papers (since these papers are being

evaluated, formal language is expected) In professional documents such as resumes and

memos (which others will read and evaluate)

Know the Audience

If the text (paper, resume, letter, memo…) will be read and evaluated by someone else, then formal language should be used.

Use formal language if the document will be read by: A teacher A (potential) boss An evaluator A professional (doctor, lawyer, government employee…)

Converting Informal to Formal Language

Spell out contractions Haven’t have not He’ll he will What’s what is

Modify conversational English to polite English What’s up? How are you? You want to… Would you like to…

Converting Informal to Formal Language

Replace first (I) and second (you) personal tenses with third person, or omit them completely:

You should always complete your homework. One should always complete his or her homework.

Do you think Shakespeare was a great writer? Who believes Shakespeare was a great writer? Many people believe Shakespeare was a great writer. Shakespeare was a great writer.

I think that school uniforms should be banned. School uniforms should be banned.

Converting Informal to Formal Language