Back to Upper Intermediate
Formal vs. Informal English
Learn to distinguish between formal and informal language for different social and professional contexts.
Formal and Informal English
This video highlights key differences in vocabulary and tone.
Different Contexts
We use different language with friends than in a business meeting.

Choosing the Right Register
Learn to adapt your language to the situation.
Choosing the Right Register
The "register" is the level of formality in language. Choosing the right register is crucial for effective communication.
| Feature | Informal (Friends, Family) | Formal (Business, Academic) |
|---|---|---|
| Vocabulary | Phrasal verbs (find out), slang (gonna) | Precise verbs (discover, ascertain) |
| Contractions | Used (I'm, don't, can't) | Avoided (I am, do not, cannot) |
| Example | Hey, wanna grab a coffee later? | Would you be available for a coffee meeting later today? |