See the differences and when to use formal and informal language

The difference between formal and informal language lies in the context in which they are used and in the choice of words and expressions used to communicate.

Formal language is linked to the use of grammatical norms, while informal language is freer, being more used in everyday situations.

formal language	Informal language
What is it	The formal language is the one we use in more formal situations, being marked by the use of the cultured norm. It is used in professional, academic situations or when there is no familiarity between the interlocutors, that is, in situations that require more seriousness.	Informal language is used in more relaxed situations, when there is a familiarity between the interlocutors. In it, it is not necessary to use the cultured norm, being common the use of slang and colloquialisms.
Characteristics	Use of cultured norms, strictly respecting grammatical norms; Use of an extensive vocabulary; Correct and clear pronunciation of words.	Unconcern with the use of grammatical norms; Use of colloquialisms, popular expressions, slang, invented words (neologisms); Use of abbreviated words such as you, you It is I'm; Subject to cultural and regional variations.
Language	Cultured.	Colloquial.
grammatical norm	Correct use of rules.	You don't have to follow the rules.
where is it used	More formal situations such as; political speeches, job interviews, lectures, public tenders and official documents. It is usually used when talking to superiors, authorities or the public.	Used in everyday conversations, in cell phone messages, chats. It is usually used in conversations between friends and family.
most common usage	When we write.	When we talk.
Example	Did you see what's going on?	Wow, did you see what's going on?

What is formal language and when do we use it?

Formal language is less personal than informal language. It is used when writing for professional or academic purposes, such as university assignments. Formal language does not use colloquialisms, abbreviations or slang.

We mostly use formal language when writing, such as in academic articles, business emails or reports. However, formal language is also used in cases of lectures or presentations.

What is it and how do we use informal language?

Informal language is more casual and spontaneous, deviating from grammatical norms.

It is mainly used when we speak more impulsively and casually, such as in conversations with family and friends. The tone of informal language is more personal than formal language.

However, informal language is not only used when we speak. We can also use informal language when writing, for example in a postcard to a family member or a text message to a friend. Some advertisements also use this type of language to have an effect and reach the target audience.

Examples of using formal language and informal language

using abbreviations

Formal language: How are you?

Informal language: How are you?

In this example, "cê" and "tá" replace "você" and "está", characterized by informal language.

Using slang and expressions

Formal language: I'm very late.

Informal language: Damn! I'm very late.

In the example above, the informal language is characterized by the use of the slang "caramba", and is also an example of the use of expressions used orally, such as "tô".

Also find out the differences between:

• Speech, Tongue and Language
• Text types
• Genres and text types
• Understanding and interpretation of text
• Cohesion and coherence