Language in Context
Formal or informal
We speak differently to friends, teachers and officials. This change in style is called register.
1 Observe
These words say the same thing. Where would you use each one?
- Get Informal and everyday: chats with friends and family.
- Receive Neutral: school work, emails, most writing.
- Obtain Formal: applications, official forms, reports.
- Kids / Children 'Kids' is informal; 'children' fits school and formal writing.
2 Discover
You talk one way to your best friend and another way to your principal. Words work the same way. Get is friendly and casual. Receive is polite. Obtain is very formal. This is called register.
In the Gerund course: Unit 24 Vocabulary in Context
3 Apply
Priya messages her best friend: 'I ____ the book you lent me. Thanks!'
In a leave letter to the principal: 'I ____ leave for Friday, 13 November.'
On a bank form in Jaipur: 'Date the payment was ____.'
4 Create
Write the same news twice: once to a friend, once to your class teacher.
This box is just for you. Nothing you write here is saved or sent.
Example: WhatsApp: Can you tell me more? Application: I would like to enquire about the role.
5 Explore
Open the register cards. Find one formal word you could use in your next application or report.