is informal a part of speech

Formal Vs Informal Speeches: An A-Z Guide

Hrideep barot.

• Public Speaking , Speech Writing , Workplace Communication

A speech is either formal or informal. Meaning, it can either be a formal address delivered to an audience or the daily use of grammar and words to communicate. The only purpose of either of those speeches is to put across a message well enough to invoke the desired response from your audience. Throughout history, humans all across the world cleverly inspired world-wide revolutions solely through the power of speech. Since then, a lot of tools and techniques of speeches have developed to ensure we use this power to its maximum capacity.  

The two broad classifications of events we use speeches are called formal events and informal events. Therefore, depending on the kind of audience, the situation, the message, the tone and the environment, the orator must decide whether they should address a formal speech or an informal speech. Working out where you use what kind of speech is the most important aspect of being a good communicator.

Formal Speeches

What are formal speeches.

Formal Speeches are made when you’re speaking to a sizable audience you don’t personally know. These are professional events where you’re expected to make a good impression on the audience. The nature of these events is often serious and decorous. These events therefore demand a similar respectable tone of language and speech.

For example, while at a job interview, speaking to an individual of authority, delivering a lecture, making a presentation, giving a pitch, motivating the audience, hosting a business event etc., you must ensure you speak formally. 

What makes a speech formal?

Formal speeches are also called orations. They are used in situations that are more ‘serious.’ They project a specific tone and specific characteristics. A few basic tools and attributes of formal speeches are:

The tone of a formal speech is always polite and respectful. Since formal speeches are mainly used to communicate with people in authority or strangers, it is important to structure your sentences suitably. The use of civilised words, appropriate grammar, complete sentences and enhanced vocabulary maintains the decorum of a formal speech.

Objectiveness

A formal communication style usually takes no stances. The sentence is spoken in a passive voice with a minimum use of personal pronouns. When we avoid using personal pronouns such as ‘I’, ‘We’ and ‘You’, the essence of the point changes from being an opinion to a fact. Therefore, the content of your speech sounds more objective than subjective.

Effectiveness

A formal speech is more effective than an informal speech because it comprises longer sentences and clear, non-colloquial phrases. It is well-spoken and the pronunciations are fathomable and precise. Its adherence to the Standard English language makes it comprehensible for the entire audience, even the non-native English speakers. It therefore proves to be extremely effective, suitable for a workplace or a business environment.

Standard English Language

A formal speech naturally follows the standards and rules formally set by the language. Languages tend to have regional differences and additional local slang to them. Even within England, British English and Scottish English tend to have different dialects and colloquial. For example, maybe phrases like “sure-fire” or “works like a charm” are deemed normal at your workplace but you cannot expect a non-English speaking trader to know them. When we adhere to the Standard English prescribed by Oxford, everybody who has academically learnt the English language is able to understand what one is trying to say.

The generous use of long sentences, no contractions, minimum abbreviations, proper grammar, complex sentence structure, clear pronunciation and overall objectiveness of the information brings a lot of clarity to one’s speech. There is seldom any room for doubts or misunderstandings. The extensive use of impersonal and formal language brings out professionalism and makes your information more credible.

What should you NOT include in a Formal Speech

The obvious ways of distinguishing between a formal speech and an informal speech are determined through the process of elimination. The following are a few things that you shouldn’t include in a formal speech:

Casual Greeting

There are a number of ways you can greet a person. Each kind of greeting has formal and informal versions that you can use based on how well you know the person and what degree of professionalism you are required to maintain with that person. For example,

• Formal: Hello, how do you do?
• Informal: Hey, how are ya?
• Formal: Nice to meet you/ Pleased to meet you.
• Informal: Good to see you.
• Formal: How have you been?
• Informal: Long time no see!

Slangs and Colloquialism

Slangs include a language that’s peculiar to a particular group, a regional reference, or even curse words. It’s extremely important to keep slang words at bay when you’re delivering a formal speech. A formal tone prescribes standard, professional English language. For example,

• Informal: Stats say, stress is the reason why this workplace is always screwing up.
• Formal: According to statistics, stress is one of the most frequent factors that disrupts efficiency and encourages problems in the workplace.
• Informal: Know yourself honestly and well enough to find what stresses you out.
• Formal: Being candid with ourselves is the most effective way to establish the triggers of stress we experience.

Contractions

Contracting words and sentences assert an informal and casual tone. If you are aiming to sound professional and polished, avoiding contractions is recommended. For example,

• Informal: I’ve had enough, I don’t think I’m gonna let this slide the next time.
• Formal: Your limit has been surpassed, I do not think this mistake will go unpunished the next time.

Personal Pronouns

The main characteristics of a formal speech are its impersonal nature and the precise, passive and objective delivery of information. While writing a formal speech, avoid using pronouns altogether. However, if required, try using neutral pronouns such as ‘one.’ For example,

• Informal: I was alarmed when I found out the effects of stress.
• Formal: The effects of stress were found to be quite alarming.
• Informal: You shouldn’t stress out about the things you can’t control.
• Formal: One shouldn’t take stress about the things beyond one’s control.

Poor Vocabulary

Gather your thesaurus before you write your formal speech because the better your vocabulary, more formal the content of your speech sounds. While both your sentences would mean the same thing, the tone in which they are delivered would classify them as informal speeches or formal speeches. For example,

• Informal: He took the item back to the shop.
• Formal: He returned the item to the shop.
• Informal: The CEO of this company gave up his position because his mental health was being affected.
• Formal: The CEO of this company relinquished his position due to his mental health being compromised.

How should you structure a Formal Speech?

The basic structure of a formal speech is no different than the structure of an essay. Organising your speech not only improves the clarity of thought but also amplifies the effectiveness of your content. A formal speech includes an introduction, a body and a conclusion.

The Introduction

A formal introduction establishes a respectful contact between the speaker and the listener. The introduction should last for one minute at the most. It should sound deferential and strictly adhere to formal English. How should you begin a formal speech?

The Greeting

The introduction of a formal speech can typically begin with a greeting. After wishing ‘good morning’ or ‘good evening’ depending on the time of the day, you may introduce yourself humbly. You can thank the organisers of the event for inviting you to speak or compliment a senior member of the event to pay respect. 

Acknowledging the Audience

It is polite to thank the audience for gathering to hear you out. Greet them with a genuine smile and express what an honour it is to be speaking before them today. After all, they have sacrificed their precious time to be here today.

Placing your Claim

The introduction is the most crucial segment of your speech. The curiosity you are able to pique in this part decides how much audience you will retain throughout your speech. It is extremely important you place your claim in the most catchy manner. Even in a formal speech, you can use quotes, rhetorical devices, imagery, startling elements, stories or even silence. As long as the language used is respectful, professional and follows the formal English, it can be a good opener for a formal speech. 

In case you’re looking for a few creative ways you can open your speech, you can refer to our blogpost for help!

The body makes up everything you have to say about the claim you placed in the introduction. It can have additional facts, supporting arguments and other temporal modes of organising your information. The temporal modes of organising information can be:

• Cause-effect relation in past, present or future tense
• Effect-cause relation which is basically inverting it and highlighting the effects before you state how they are achieved.
• Compare and contrast your entities.
• Narrate your topics as a story by organising the flow of the speech by finding relation and joint-relevance between two topics.
• Subdividing a large chunk of information into headings and subheadings is also a good topical way to organise your information formally.

The Conclusion

How do you end a formal speech? The conclusion follows the transition that was laid down by the body. The two main aims of a conclusion are to summarise the ideas of the speech and provide a closure. The conclusion of any formal speech can include:

• A summary of the speech.
• A ‘Now-What?’ statement elucidating the takeaway of the speech for the audience.
• A reference back to the introduction of the speech.
• An open-ended question to ponder upon.

If the last line of your speech is as important as the introduction segment where you make the claim. The weight and impact of the last sentence decides how memorable your speech would be. If you don’t feel like dropping the mic after the last sentence of your speech, maybe it’s not as mind-blowing and impactful as it ideally should be. 

If you are looking to seek more advice on how you can structure your formal speeches more professionally , be sure to check out our guidelines.

Informal Speeches

Informal speeches are casual and relaxed. They are made while talking to friends, colleagues or people you personally know. There are no hard and fast rules while making an informal speech other than somehow conveying the message you want to convey. 

What makes a speech informal?

Informal speeches radiate a very comfortable and relaxed energy. They’re friendlier than formal speeches and they often carry the personality of the person addressing them. A few characteristics that can help you identify informal speeches are:

Since casual speeches don’t require a very strict preparation like formal speeches, they are often easygoing. Informal speeches are made sporadically and are mostly off the record. The level of ease informal speeches carry can differ from person to person given how extroverted they are, or how comfortable they are with the audience. 

Informal speeches sound colourful. In the sense, the speaker is given the liberty to express themselves as they truly are. They don’t have a monotonous tone like formal speeches. The speaker can add their own slang, phrases they normally use, their personality, their dialects and in general make the speech as entertaining and fun as they please. 

Informal speeches give you the artistic and comedic liberty to put forth your message. While formal speeches usually adhere to the strictness of sounding ‘serious’ and ‘professional’, informal speeches are like laid back and pleasurable conversations.

You do not normally talk in complex sentence structures or dramatically use vocabulary. Likewise, informal speeches are often simple and straightforward. They use short sentences and terms and references from day-to-day life. You may use words and phrases like ‘that’s dope’, ‘don’t be salty’, ‘bruh’, ‘I’m shook’, ‘No cap’ etc. 

Informal speech is used in day-to-day life. Unlike other languages, most English speakers tend to speak informally with strangers on the street. While they’re friendly, they might not necessarily be polite if the listener cannot interpret the tone of your speech. 

Since informal speeches are more often used in everyday life, they don’t really have a structure. They do not require an introduction, a body or a conclusion. Apart from the unspoken rules of exchanging pleasantries and courtesy, you do not need to ‘prepare’ anything formal, just have the idea of what you want to say in mind.

A few examples of informal speeches would be:

• A Best Man’s Speech for his Brother’s Wedding: In this example, the occasion is properly informal. The speaker is amongst friends and family, speaking about his brother and his new wife. It is hilarious and also contains a poem to deliver the message!

• A Valedictorian Speech for the Class of 2010: In this example, while the occasion is formal, the speaker has very cleverly added a subtle informal tone while still maintaining the collective polite structure. He framed all inside jokes in a way everybody could understand. It was overall confident, humorous, ingenious and a great valedictorian speech.

What are the Main Differences Between Formal and Informal Speeches?

The following table elucidates the main differences between formal and informal speeches, summarising all its characteristics.

Case Study: A Sales Pitch

Let’s study the an applied example of formal and informal speeches. The above video is a sales pitch for electric cars. There are two characters in this video, each used in informal speech and formal speech respectively. Let us analyse both their speeches to understand how you can implement the two styles in your communication. 

Informal Speech

The first man uses an informal style of speech. He begins his speech by saying, “Ladies and gentlemen, electric cars. They’re totally gay.” Naturally, in a work environment where formal tones are expected, the opening statement left all the members of the meeting stupefied. They found his speech disrespectful and all the faces around the room were either shocked, perplexed or disapproving. The casual tone could have easily been found offensive on the pretext of homophobia. He also says things like ‘rock-and-roll-ness’, ‘sexiness of the car’, ‘this model took more virginities than Francis Albert Sinatra’, which can come across as rather controversial in a formal business meeting. Gradually, the informal and blunt approach did work out for the salesperson. However, the chances of it being successful are bleak and you could just be overruled any time. Using a formal tone is therefore a safer option.

Formal Speech

The second man in the film, referred to as Nicholas, takes over and summarises the pitch using formal speech. He uses statements like, ‘We believe we can produce the technology to incorporate an electric motor in your current model.’ He said the exact same thing the first man was trying to communicate but in a far more classy manner. Instead of calling it ‘sexy’ or ‘rock-and-roll’, he refers to its features as ‘exhilarating’ and ‘aggressive’, making the experience ‘visceral’ and retaining a manly retro element of the car than making it look ‘gay’. 

This example distinguishing formal speech with informal speech hopefully gives you a thorough idea of what they are. However, when should you use formal speech? And when should you give an informal speech?

Should you use Formal Speech or Informal Speech?

Knowing what speech is best suited for the given situation always depends on the context. You should be intelligent enough to be able to recognize situations that demand a formal tone and situations that can be handled casually.

Generally, informal speeches are made at weddings while giving a toast or at birthdays to express love etc. Formal speeches are made in professional settings, work places, educational institutes, talking to authorities, job interviews, business meetings, negotiations, elders or people you don’t know.  

However, sometimes in job interviews, the interviewer can be looking for what your personality is like. In situations like this, you need to tone down how formally you talk. Some corporate cultures embrace a casual and informal tone in their business affairs while some companies prefer individuals who can maintain a strong formal and professional persona. 

When you are doubtful about what speech to use, always stick to formal speech. While informal speech is friendly, formal speech is polite. It establishes goodwill and credibility. Although it’s not good to be overly formal either. Saying “Greetings, let me guide you through the floorplans of this building so you can navigate the office easily.” is frankly absurd and foolish. Being too formal can also come across as cold, distant and ironically even impolite. You do not want to be a robot. Sometimes saying, “Good morning, allow me to give you an office tour.” does just the right thing.

To Conclude,

A good communicator can not only convey any kind of message to their audience but also convey their message to any kind of audience. And in order to achieve this, a good communicator is the master of the art of speech as well as the master of knowing the audience and what tone they would appreciate. 

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Understanding Formal vs. Informal Language: A Comprehensive Guide

English is a flexible language that allows us to communicate across different contexts. Whether speaking with friends, writing an academic paper, or giving a professional presentation, the level of formality used can vastly change the meaning and impact. Understanding when to use formal versus informal English and switching between the two is a key communication skill.

This comprehensive guide will examine the key differences between formal and informal English, provide examples of each, discuss when to use them, and give tips for navigating between the two registers smoothly. With the information provided here, you will be able to confidently adapt your communication style to fit any situation.

What is Formal English?

Formal English is used in professional, academic, or official settings. It is characterized by its adherence to grammatical rules, precise vocabulary, and structured tone. Formal language is commonly employed in professional correspondence, academic papers, and business communication. It has a serious tone and demonstrates respect for the audience. Some key characteristics include:

• Complete sentences and proper grammar
• Advanced vocabulary and longer words
• Lack of slang, idioms, contractions
• Objective and precise language
• Third person perspective rather than first person.

For example, in a formal email to a potential employer, one would use phrases like "Dear Mr. Smith" and "Sincerely yours," maintaining a respectful and professional tone.

In academic writing, phrases like "Furthermore," "In addition," and "Moreover" are commonly used to link ideas and provide logical transitions between points. 

Similarly, in legal documents, formal language is crucial for precision and clarity. Terms like "hereinafter," "notwithstanding," and "heretofore" are used to establish legal relationships and define specific rights and obligations. 

What is Informal English?

In contrast, informal English is used in casual, spontaneous, and friendly conversations. It has a more relaxed, conversational tone. Informal language often includes colloquial expressions or slang. It fosters a sense of familiarity and closeness between individuals. 

Some informal English features include:

• Incomplete sentences and fragmented phrases
• Simplified grammar and structure
• Slang, idioms, phrasal verbs
• Contractions like isn’t, don’t, haven’t, they’re
• First and second person perspectives
• Opinions rather than facts
• Repetition of words or phrases for emphasis.

Among friends, one might say, "Hey, what's up?" instead of the more formal "How are you?".

In formal English we would say: "The research methodology requires modification in order to achieve more accurate results." In informal English we would say: "We gotta change how we're doing the research to get better results."

When to Use Formal English

The level of formality used depends greatly on the situation, audience, and purpose of communication. Using formal language conveys professionalism, respect, and seriousness.

Formal English is most appropriate for:

• When communicating with someone you don't know well
• When addressing superiors or authority figures
• Official communications like cover letters, resumes, presentations
• Job interviews and business meetings
• Academic writing such as research papers, essays, dissertations
• Official documents like contracts, application forms, letters to authority figures
• Diplomatic protocol
• Legal documents
• Speaking in professional or academic settings
• Writing for a general audience.

When to Use Informal English

Informal language facilitates casual interactions and fosters a sense of camaraderie among peers. It allows for spontaneity and authenticity in communication, creating a relaxed atmosphere. For example, during a lunch break with colleagues, one might say, "Let's grab a bite to eat," using informal language to suggest a casual outing.

Informal English works best for:

• Informal meetings and social gatherings 
• Casual conversations with friends, family, peers
• Personal communications like text messages, emails, social media
• Creative writing such as poetry, fiction, lyrics
• When it is appropriate - in advertising and marketing
• Speaking to children or in relaxed social situations
• Writing for a familiar audience
• On social media.

For example, a job interview calls for formal English but chatting with co-workers around the office can be informal. 

The language used when publishing an academic paper would be much more formal than writing in a personal journal.

Examples of Formal vs. Informal

Let’s look at some examples to see the key differences between formal and informal style:

Examples of formal language: "I apologize for the inconvenience caused."

Examples of informal language: “Sorry about that.”

Formal: "Could you please provide me with further information?"

Informal: “Can you tell me more about it?”

Formal: "The company is experiencing a decline in revenue."

Informal: “The company's not making as much money as before.”

Formal: "It is essential to complete the project by the deadline."

Informal: “We need to finish the project on time.”

Formal: "I am interested in learning more about the job opportunity."

Informal: “I wanna know more about the job.”

Formal: "The meeting has been rescheduled to next Monday."

Informal: “We're meeting next Monday instead.”

Formal: "We need to address the issue as soon as possible."

Informal: “Let's deal with the problem ASAP.”

Formal: "I am writing to inquire about the status of my application."

Informal: “Just checking on my application. Any updates?”

Formal: "It is imperative that we adhere to company policies."

Informal: “We gotta follow the rules.”

Formal: "Please find attached the requested documents."

Informal: “I've sent the stuff you asked for.”

As you can see, formal English relies on sophisticated vocabulary, full sentences, and an objective tone. 

Informal English uses more casual language, contractions, idioms, and a conversational style.

Formal & Informal Verbs 

Verbs are an important part of speech that can shift in formality. In formal English, verbs are properly conjugated and tense is used precisely. In informal English, verbs may be truncated or conjugated loosely. Moreover, formal English relies on verbs like utilize, facilitate, elucidate, while informal English uses simpler verbs like use, help, explain. Choosing verbs carefully is key for controlling formality level.

Examples of informal language: "Let's go grab lunch."

Examples of formal language: “We should proceed to have lunch.”

Informal: "I gotta finish this by tomorrow."

Formal: “I must complete this by tomorrow.”

Informal: "She's gonna call you back later."

Formal: “She will contact you at a later time.”

Informal: "He's been seeing a therapist."

Formal: “He has been consulting with a therapist.”

Informal: "We're heading out soon."

Formal: "We are departing shortly."

Formal & Informal Abbreviations 

Abbreviations are generally more common in informal English. Contractions like shouldn’t, don’t, or can’t are acceptable in moderation in informal contexts, but should be avoided in formal writing. For example:

Examples of informal language: "I don’t think we should go."

Examples of formal language: “I do not think we should go.”

Other informal abbreviations like kinda, gonna, gotta would be out of place in formal communication. For instance:

Informal: "I’m kinda tired."

Formal: “I am somewhat fatigued.”

Acronyms like ASAP or BTW are casual ways to shorten information that would be written out fully in formal English, such as “as soon as possible” and “by the way.”

Informal: "BTW, I'll be there in 10."

Formal: “By the way, I will arrive there in ten minutes.”

Informal: "ASAP, please."

Formal: “As soon as possible, if you would.”

Informal: "FYI, the meeting's been rescheduled."

Formal: “For your information, the meeting has been rescheduled.”

Informal: "IDK if I can make it."

Formal: “I don't know if I will be able to attend.”

Informal: "LOL, that's hilarious!"

Formal: “That is amusing.”

However, abbreviations like e.g. (stands for "exempli gratia," which means "for example") and i.e. (stands for "id est," which means "that is") are conventions accepted even in formal writing. 

Knowing which abbreviations align with the register being used is important.

Formal & Informal Slang

Slang should be predominantly confined to informal communication, where it adds color and informality. Slang terms like cool, dude, easy peasy, cringe, or yikes would not be appropriate for a professional context. Other very casual slang like wanna, gotta, or gimme have no place in formal communication. 

However, slang can be used judiciously in some informal business contexts, marketing, or advertising to convey authenticity. In formal academic writing, slang would generally detract from the scholarly tone, unless being analyzed or intentionally used in quotes or dialogue. Being able to recognize slang as too informal for most professional and academic purposes is a key linguistic skill.

Examples of informal language: "That's lit!"

Examples of formal language: “That is impressive.”

Informal: "She's a total boss."

Formal: “She is highly competent.”

Informal: "I'm gonna bail on the party."

Formal: “I will not attend the party.”

Informal: "This place is a dump."

Formal: “This location is in poor condition.”

Informal: "He's such a slacker."

Formal: "He lacks motivation."

Formal & Informal Emphasis Words

Words used for emphasis also differ between registers. In formal English, words like notably, significantly, substantially might be used to stress key information. For example, “The new policy will substantially improve employee retention.” 

In informal English, words like so, really, super, and totally can emphasize points instead. For instance, “This pizza is so amazing!” Likewise, informal emphasis words like absolutely, obviously, and literally are frequently overused in casual conversation, while formal English relies more on logic and facts for impact. Knowing when to temper emphasis is important for appropriate formality.

Examples of informal language: "She's really talented."

Examples of formal language: “She is exceptionally talented.”

Informal: "That's so cool!"

Formal: “That is quite impressive.”

Informal: "He's incredibly smart."

Formal: “He is highly intelligent.”

Informal: "This is super important."

Formal: “This is of utmost importance.”

Informal: "It's really fun."

Formal: "It is quite enjoyable."

Formal & Informal Transitions

Formal English utilizes transitional words and phrases to create structured, logical connections between ideas. Common formal transitions include: therefore, consequently, as a result, in conclusion, etc. Academic writing also relies heavily on transitions like: however, furthermore, additionally, in contrast. 

In informal English, transitions tend to be more direct and conversational. For instance: then, next, after, also, well, anyhow, anyway, so, and then. While all languages benefit from transitions, formal English requires more sophisticated and precise transitions to develop academic arguments or professional narratives.

Examples of informal language: "Anyway, let's move on."

Examples of formal language: “In any case, let us proceed.”

Informal: "But hey, that's life."

Formal: “However, such is life.”

Informal: "So, what's the plan?"

Formal: “Therefore, what is the proposed course of action?”

Informal: "And then, she said..."

Formal: “Furthermore, her statement was...”

Informal: "Well, I think..."

Formal: "Indeed, I believe..."

Other Formal and Informal Words

In addition to verbs, abbreviations, slang, and transitions, many other types of words vary in formality.

For example, formal English relies on Latin-derived vocabulary like "utilize" instead of simpler words like "use." Words of French origin like "commence" or "facilitate" are also more formal.

Informal English embraces more casual, colloquial words like "hang out" instead of "socialize." Direct words like "go," "big," or "stop" are more informal than elaborate options like "proceed," "substantial," or “cease.”

Likewise, descriptive words differ in formality. Formal words include "systematic," "adequate," "erroneous," while casual options are "organized," "enough," “wrong.”

Modes of address also change; formal English uses titles like "Doctor," "Professor," "Sir/Ma'am" versus informal choices like "Doc," "Dr. [Surname]," or first names.

In short, formal English adopts sophisticated, precise vocabulary while informal English uses common, everyday words. Considering connotations of formality helps determine word choice.

Here are some more examples:

Formal: Commence, elucidate, aforementioned

Informal: Start, explain, above-mentioned

Formal: Consequently, furthermore, however

Informal: So, also, but

Formal: Purchase, inquire, residence

Informal: Buy, ask, house

Formal: Colleague, companion, physician

Informal: Co-worker, friend, doctor

Formal: Utilize, terminate, approximately

Informal: Use, stop, about

Formal: Huge, tiny, acceptable, amiable, rude

Informal: Enormous, diminutive, okay, friendly, disagreeable.

Tips for Switching Between Formal and Informal

As English learners, mastering the art of navigating between formal and informal language is essential for effective communication. Pay attention to the context and audience when choosing the appropriate register. Practice reading and listening to various forms of English to familiarize yourself with formal and informal expressions. Additionally, seek feedback from native speakers or language instructors to refine your language skills.

Here are some tips for smoothly switching between formal and informal English:

• Identify your audience and purpose first - this determines the appropriate register
• Make formal writing clearer and more direct; avoid unnecessarily complex language
• Use contractions and personal pronouns to add a conversational tone when appropriate
• Gradually introduce idioms and phrasal verbs to add color to informal speech
• Temper opinions and personal perspectives in formal contexts
• Use the third person point-of-view for objectivity
• Proofread to check formality level matches the situation
• Read texts aloud to identify any language that sounds too formal or informal
• Ask others to review to get feedback on your formality level
• Consume quality examples of formal and informal English.

With practice, you will be able to artfully adapt your communication style to connect with any audience in a meaningful way.

Formal & Informal Letter Expressions

The language used in letters and emails can vary greatly between formal and informal contexts. In formal letters and professional correspondence, standard greetings like “Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname]” are used along with formal closings such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” 

Informal emails and personal notes use more casual openings like “Hey” or “Hi [First Name]” and sign-offs like “Thanks!” or “Talk soon.”

Likewise, formal expressions of gratitude include “Thank you for your consideration” while informal emails use simpler phrases like “Thanks for helping me out.” 

Making requests also changes with formality, for example, “I would appreciate if you could provide an update at your earliest convenience” versus “Can you give me an update when you get a chance?” 

Formal letters also tend to use longer, complete sentences whereas informal notes often use sentence fragments and brief phrases. Adjusting letter language based on the relationship with the recipient and the purpose of the message is key for conveying respect and formality when needed.

• Formal letter opening:

Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],

To whom it may concern,

Dear Sir/Madam,

• Informal letter opening:

Hey [Friend's Name],

Hi [Friend's Name],

Dear [Friend's Name],

• Formal letter closing:

Yours faithfully,

Respectfully,

• Informal letter closing:

Best wishes,

• Formal gratitude expression:

Thank you for taking the time to consider my proposal. I appreciate your assistance.

• Informal gratitude expression:

Thx for the help!

• Formal request:

I would be grateful if you could provide an update on the status of my application at your earliest convenience.

• Informal request:

Can you let me know if you’ve heard anything about my application?

Promova Language Learning Options

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Our  online group classes connect you with expert tutors and fellow students in a virtual classroom, allowing you to actively practice conversing in English. These sessions are not only about conversational skills but also cover essential aspects of the language such as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, listening, and writing.

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The key to skilfully using language is understanding when formal or informal English is best suited for the occasion. While informal language serves us well in relaxed, personal environments, formal English gives credibility and respect in professional academic settings.

Learning to identify situational cues, become comfortable code-switching between the two registers, and seeking feedback will enable you to effectively navigate diverse social and rhetorical contexts. Whether drafting an email to your professor or chatting with friends, you will be able to communicate with purpose and intention.

Confidently using both formal and informal language is a valuable skill that demonstrates linguistic dexterity and emotional intelligence. With this comprehensive guide from Promova, you now have the knowledge needed to tailor your communication style to any audience or situation.

Is formal English required for all academic writing?

Generally yes, formal English is expected in academic writing to demonstrate objectivity and respect for the audience. However, exceptions can be made for creative works, dialogues, or quoted passages which intentionally use informal language.

Can I use contractions in formal writing?

Occasional use of contractions can be acceptable in formal writing, depending on the specific context and level of formality required. However, it's important to use them judiciously and consider the overall tone and style of the writing. In more formal settings such as academic papers, professional correspondence, or official documents, contractions are generally avoided to maintain a more serious and precise tone. However, in less formal situations such as certain types of business communication or informal reports, the use of contractions may be more acceptable. Ultimately, it's best to follow any guidelines provided by the specific context or audience.

Is it acceptable to use some informal language in a job interview?

It’s best to maintain formal English when interviewing, as this shows professionalism. After being hired, workplace culture determines how much informality is appropriate with colleagues.

How can I improve my formal writing skills?

Promova offers various learning opportunities to help you enhance your formal writing skills. Our online group classes and personalized 1-on-1 tutoring sessions are designed to cater to your specific needs and goals, whether you're looking to improve grammar, expand your vocabulary, or refine your writing style. Our expert tutors provide constructive feedback and guidance to help you develop clarity, precision, and professionalism in your formal writing. Additionally, our language learning app offers interactive lessons and exercises focused on formal language usage, allowing you to practice and reinforce your skills at your own pace. With Promova, you'll receive the support and tools you need to become a confident and proficient formal writer.

Is it appropriate to use emojis in formal emails?

Emojis are generally not suitable for formal emails or professional communication as they can be perceived as unprofessional or immature. It's best to express emotions and tone through the content of the message rather than relying on emojis.

Can I use personal pronouns in formal writing?

Personal pronouns such as "I," "you," and "we" should be used sparingly in formal writing, particularly in academic or professional contexts where objectivity and impartiality are valued. Instead, focus on conveying ideas and information objectively without relying heavily on personal pronouns. Use third-person pronouns or passive voice when appropriate.

What Are the Differences Between Formal & Informal Speech?

How to Use Adverbs in Writing

The major differences between formal and informal speech come from the social and cultural contexts in which speakers use them. Speakers tend to use informal English among friends and relatives. Informal speech can include informal text messages and other written communication. Speakers use formal speech in more professional settings, usually among colleagues or new acquaintances. Judgment of comfort level and social expectations give clues to speakers so that the average person switches between formal and informal speech in a variety of situations.

To recognize the difference between formal and informal English, pay close attention to contractions, phrasal verbs, colloquialisms and, in informal text, the use of the first person.

Informal English Uses More Contractions

A contraction is a shortening of two words that combines them into one. Some common examples of contractions are can’t, won’t and don't. While most who speak English use contractions regularly, whether you're speaking in a formal setting to business people or your friends at school, contractions in formal written English are less common. So the use of contractions sometimes makes an easy indicator if a piece of writing qualifies as informal text. The more informal a text is, the more it will sound like regular speech, contractions and all.

Example Sentence: "I can’t go to school today because my car won’t start."

This sentence is informal for a number of reasons. The primary one is its use of contractions. To make the sentence sound more formal, a writer could take out the instances of contractions and replace them with their standard English equivalent.

New Sentence: "I cannot go to school today because my car refused to start."

Phrasal Verbs Abound in Informal Speech

A phrasal verb is an idiom in which a verb is accompanied by another word to make a complete expression. Some examples include “picked on,” “takes after” and “looking forward to.”

Example Sentence: "I put up with his shenanigans for so long that the two of us would have passed for brothers."

Not only do the phrasal verbs in this sentence make it informal, they make the sentence feel long-winded and wordy as well. To correct that, a writer should find more succinct synonyms for the phrasal verbs.

New Sentence: "I endured his shenanigans for so long that the two of us seemed like brothers."

Informal Speaking Patterns Use Colloquialisms and Slang

Slang is a type of vocabulary used by one social group but not by the population at large. Colloquial speech often refers to the use of a regional dialect and is often conflated with informal speech.

Example Sentence: "My rad Delorean zapped me all the way to the 2020s, and it was a totally righteous trip."

The problem with slang is that it isn’t always descriptive. It indicates tone and feeling more than it does detail. As you will see, attempting to excise slang can completely change the meaning of a sentence, so be careful!

New Sentence: "My energy-efficient Delorean helped me travel to the 2020s, and the trip was quite informative."

Watch for First Person Pronouns in Informal Text

While most people speak in the first person, many types of documents require more formal third-person writing. If you're writing a formal essay, watch out for the sneaky “I” appearing where it shouldn’t.

Example Sentence: "I think time travel is a fascinating subject, but I’m not sure it will ever become as easy as in the movies."

Even when writing an opinion essay, the use of the first person is unnecessary. The reader will assume that you think or believe everything you write unless you say otherwise. To make your writing more formal, remove the first person.

New Sentence: "Time travel is a fascinating subject, but it will never become as easy as in the movies."

Related Articles

How to Speak Formal English

How to Teach Contractions to ESL Students

How to Write a Testimonial Speech

Difference Between Imperative and Exclamatory

Rules for Elementary English Grammar

What Is a Formulaic Phrase?

How to Teach Direct and Indirect Speech

How to Write an Essay in Conversation Style

• University of Technology Sydney: Formal and Informal Language
• RegisteredNursing.org: Distinguishing Between Formal and Informal Language: TEAS
• Espresso English: Formal, Semi-Formal, And Informal English

Rebecca Renner is a teacher and college professor from Florida. She loves teaching about literature, and she writes about books for Book Riot, Real Simple, Electric Literature and more.

Formal and informal speech and writing

People speak and write in different ways on different occasions. There are, however, some words and structures which are mainly used in formal situations  – for example report writing, business meetings, conferences, polite conversations etc.

There are also some words and expressions which are mainly used in informal situations – conversations with friends etc.

In writing, we almost always use formal words and expressions. Speech, on the other hand, is often more informal.

Some grammatical structures have two forms – formal and informal.

For example, in informal speech and writing we use contracted auxiliary verbs and negatives.

Formal: It is working. Informal: I t’s working. Informal: He ‘s gone. Formal: He has gone.

Prepositions

In informal language prepositions often come at the end of certain structures.

Formal: To which nation does he belong? Informal: Which nation does he belong to?

Some determiners are followed by singular verbs in formal language and plural verbs in informal language.

Formal: Neither of us like s him. Informal: Neither of us like him.

Some pronouns have different forms in formal and informal language.

Formal: Whom did they elect? Informal: Who did they elect?

In informal language we often leave out words.

Formal: She said that she would come. Informal: She said she would come. Formal: Have you seen Annie? Informal: Seen Annie?

Some words are mainly used in informal situations. In formal situations other words or expressions are used.

Informal                                               Formal Fix                                                           Repair Begin / start                                        commence Thanks                                                   Thank you What? / Pardon? / Sorry?              I beg your pardon?

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You’re probably quite familiar with the “grammar police”—those people who find it necessary to correct any grammar mistake you make. You, in fact, may be a member of the “grammar police” squad yourself, but if you’re not, you probably get a little tired of the corrections. After all, this person understood what you were saying. Why is it necessary to correct?

Usually, members of the “grammar police” squad aren’t necessary. When we speak in informal conversations, as long as we are being understood, the particulars of correctness aren’t really an issue.

However, there are times when correctness is really important, and when you write for an academic audience or a professional audience, correctness is a pretty big deal. The fact is that people judge us based on our writing, and correctness is a part of that. With that in mind, the following pages, which cover grammar and proper usage of the major parts of speech, will be helpful.

The menu list on the left is here for your reference. You may decide to read through this content, start to finish, but if not, and you just need to check on a few points that give you trouble, the information is just a click away.

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Language Register

Formal, informal, and neutral.

Click Here for Step-by-Step Rules, Stories and Exercises to Practice All English Tenses

Formal Language Register

• Letters of complaint
• Some essays
• Official speeches
• Announcements
• Professional emails

Rules of the formal language register:

1. do not use contractions.

• cannot instead of can’t
• have not instead of haven’t
• will not instead of won’t
• could not instead of couldn’t
• is not instead of isn’t
• children’s classroom
• professor’s report
• elephant’s trunk

2. Spell out numbers less than one hundred

• seventy-eight

3. Write in third person point of view

• You can purchase a car for under $10,000. One can purchase a car for under $10,000. OR A car can be purchased for under $10,000.
• You will probably see an elephant on an African safari. One may see elephants on an African safari. OR Elephants are a common sight on African safaris.
• We decided to invest in the company. The group decided to invest in the company.

4. Avoid using too much passive voice

• The bone was eaten by the dog.
• The research was completed by the students in 2009.
• The dog ate the bone.
• The students completed the research in 2009.  In 2009, the students completed the research.

5. Avoid using slang, idioms, exaggeration (hyperboles) and clichés

• awesome/cool
• check it out
• in a nutshell
• too much of a good thing
• moment of truth
• Time is money.
• Don’t push your luck.
• Beauty is only skin deep.

6. Avoid abbreviations and acronyms

• National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
• Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT)
• influenza => flu
• United States of America => U.S.A or USA
• tablespoon => tbsp.
• Kansas => KS
• LOL (laugh out loud)
• ttyl (talk to you later)
• b/c (because)
• w/o (without)

7. Do not start sentences with words like and, so, but, also

• Nevertheless
• Additionally
• In addition
• As a result of

8. Always write in complete sentences.

9. write longer, more complex sentences., informal language register.

• Personal e-mails
• Phone texts
• Short notes
• Friendly letters
• Diaries and journals
• Slang and clichés
• Figurative language
• Symbols and abbreviations
• Incomplete sentences
• Short sentences
• First person, second person, and third person
• Paragraphs or no paragraphs
• Personal opinions
• Extra punctuation (Hi Bob!!!!!!!)
• Passive and active voice

Neutral Language Register

• Some letters
• Technical writing

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Identifying Types of Definitions

LESSON When writers are trying to explain an unfamiliar idea, they rely on definitions. All definitions attempt to explain or clarify a term. This lesson will introduce you to the three different types of definitions: formal, informal, and extended.

Formal Definitions

A formal definition The meaning of a word that consists of three parts: the term, the part of speech to which it belongs, and all the traits or characteristics that set it apart from every other item in that class. consists of three parts: the term, the part of speech to which it belongs, such as a noun A part of speech that refers to a person, place, or thing. Examples include: swimmer , lake , sunscreen . or a verb A part of speech that refers to what is happening, the action, what the subject is doing, or how it is “being.” Examples include: sleep , to be , think . , and all the traits The specific parts of a person, place, or thing that distinguish it from another. or characteristics that are specific to that term. The dictionary is filled with formal definitions, but it is not the only place where you will find them. Writers often include formal definitions when they are writing about something that may be unfamiliar to their readers. In textbooks, you may find the formal definition of terms listed at the beginning, at the end of a chapter, or in the glossary, which is a mini-dictionary of terms relevant to that text.

Formal definition example:

Term: freedom

Part of speech: noun

Definition: The power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.

Informal Definitions

In an informal definition The meaning of a word that is explained using known words or examples to define an unknown term. These definitions may be synonyms or antonyms introduced by or , in other words , or like . , the writer uses known words or examples to explain an unknown term. These definitions may be synonyms A word or phrase that has an identical or very similar meaning to another word. Example: tiny is a synonym for small . or antonyms A word or phrase that has the opposite meaning from another word. Example: huge is an antonym for small . introduced by or , in other words , or like .

Informal definition example:

Freedom, also referred to as liberty or independence, is a state people reach when they are free to think and do whatever they please.

Extended Definitions

Extended definitions The meaning of an idea or word that has components of both informal and formal definitions, but is presented in a longer, paragraph format. generally have components of both informal and formal definitions. However, as the name suggests, the author uses a number of other techniques to define a word, concept, or phrase A set of words that express an idea. A phrase may or may not form a complete sentence. , including the following:

• Listing and describing the parts: identifying smaller, more familiar pieces of an idea to point to the definition of the bigger concept.
• Etymology The study of the origins of words; where the meaning of a word comes from. : sharing a word's origin.
• Examples or anecdotes A brief, interesting story that writers often use to demonstrate a point within a work. : telling a story or example that illustrates the term.
• Negation: defining a term by explaining what the concept is not.
• Evoking the senses: using a word that creates a picture in the reader's mind so that the reader might relate through memory of sound, sight, touch, hearing, or smell.
• Environment or sector: pointing out how and where something is used.
• Ramifications: showing how the term or concept affects people or objects.
• Historical references: showing how a word has been defined throughout history.

Extended definition example:

To our colonial forefathers, freedom meant having a voice in their government. ( h istorical reference) The Revolutionary War was a last resort against an empire that continued to tax its colonists without the representation of the colonists in Parliament. Since the United States won the right to rule itself, our country has been referred to as "the land of the free and the home of the brave." ( example ) True freedom means the ability to think, feel, say, or act however one chooses. ( l isting parts) It is a state where the bars of bondage do not exist. ( n egation) Unfortunately, the widening gap between the haves and have nots means that some are now shackled by their lack of education. ( e voke the senses: shackled) Americans can attain real freedom when everyone has the same educational opportunities.

It is important for you to be able to understand new terms and ideas that you encounter both in your college and professional lives. While you may be able to understand an entire text without knowing what one or two words in the text are, you could also be easily confused. For instance, if you read an article about whaling that uses the word "moratorium" and you think that a "moratorium" is a special type of aquarium, your understanding of the entire passage will be hindered since "moratorium" actually refers to the freezing, pausing, or halting of something, in this case the practice of whaling. Imagine if you then used the word "aquarium" when you should have used "moratorium." You run the risk of embarrassment if you use it with someone who knows the actual meaning; even worse, you could pass on incorrect information to another individual who would then be equally misinformed. Both situations can be avoided when you are able to identify the correct definition.

Read the following definitions; notice whether each one is a formal, informal, or extended definition. The term being defined appears as bold.

• When my friend Katrice was young, she disobeyed her parents near Christmas. I don't recall the crime, but I do recall the consequence. When she woke up on Christmas morning, there were no presents for her under the tree from "Santa Claus." To make matters worse, she had to watch her younger siblings open all their presents in front of her. Santa did not come for Katrice that year because she was on the "naughty list." While her parents may well still stand by their decision, Katrice maintains that she was the victim of cruel and unusual punishment . I tend to agree, as it seems that the consequences were too drastic for any child, no matter how naughty she may have been.

Extended definition

• Many prisoners of war have been victims of cruel and unusual punishment ; people were shocked and horrified when they learned of the water torture, temperature extremes, and sensory overloads that the prisoners were subjected to.

Informal definition

• The Cornell University Law School website defines cruel and unusual punishment (noun) as "punishment that is extremely excessive in relation to the crime, shocking to ordinary sensibilities, or equivalent to torture."

Formal definition

Read the following definitions, then identify whether each one is a formal, informal, or extended definition. The term being defined has been bolded.

Sample Answer

When I read an essay where I am unfamiliar with most of the subject matter, it is very hard for me to write about or take a test on it. Now that I can better identify the meanings of unfamiliar ideas, I think that will help me in my reading, writing, and test-taking.

Copyright ©2022 The NROC Project

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Formal and informal language

We use formal language in situations that are serious or that involve people we don’t know well. Informal language is more commonly used in situations that are more relaxed and involve people we know well.

Formal language is more common when we write; informal language is more common when we speak. However, there are times where writing can be very informal, for example, when writing postcards or letters to friends, emails or text messages. There are also examples where spoken English can be very formal, for example, in a speech or a lecture. Most uses of English are neutral; that is, they are neither formal nor informal.

Formal language and informal language are associated with particular choices of grammar and vocabulary.

Contractions, relative clauses without a relative pronoun and ellipsis are more common in informal language.

More formal vocabulary commonly involves longer words or words with origins in Latin and Greek. More informal vocabulary commonly involves shorter words, or words with origins in Anglo-Saxon. Most dictionaries indicate very informal and/or formal words.

We often choose to use certain modal verbs to be more formal and polite:

Can I suggest you try this new model? (neutral)

May I suggest you try this new model? (more formal)

Might I suggest you try this new model? (very formal)

Contractions

Speech into writing

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Dead ringers and peas in pods (Talking about similarities, Part 2)

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• English Grammar
• Parts of Speech

Parts of Speech - Definition, 8 Types and Examples

In the English language , every word is called a part of speech. The role a word plays in a sentence denotes what part of speech it belongs to. Explore the definition of parts of speech, the different parts of speech and examples in this article.

Table of Contents

Parts of speech definition, different parts of speech with examples.

• Sentences Examples for the 8 Parts of Speech

A Small Exercise to Check Your Understanding of Parts of Speech

Frequently asked questions on parts of speech, what is a part of speech.

Parts of speech are among the first grammar topics we learn when we are in school or when we start our English language learning process. Parts of speech can be defined as words that perform different roles in a sentence. Some parts of speech can perform the functions of other parts of speech too.

• The Oxford Learner’s Dictionary defines parts of speech as “one of the classes into which words are divided according to their grammar, such as noun, verb, adjective, etc.”
• The Cambridge Dictionary also gives a similar definition – “One of the grammatical groups into which words are divided, such as noun, verb, and adjective”.

Parts of speech include nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, adjectives, prepositions, conjunctions and interjections.

8 Parts of Speech Definitions and Examples:

1. Nouns are words that are used to name people, places, animals, ideas and things. Nouns can be classified into two main categories: Common nouns and Proper nouns . Common nouns are generic like ball, car, stick, etc., and proper nouns are more specific like Charles, The White House, The Sun, etc.

Examples of nouns used in sentences:

• She bought a pair of shoes . (thing)
• I have a pet. (animal)
• Is this your book ? (object)
• Many people have a fear of darkness . (ideas/abstract nouns)
• He is my brother . (person)
• This is my school . (place)

Also, explore Singular Nouns and Plural Nouns .

2. Pronouns are words that are used to substitute a noun in a sentence. There are different types of pronouns. Some of them are reflexive pronouns, possessive pronouns , relative pronouns and indefinite pronouns . I, he, she, it, them, his, yours, anyone, nobody, who, etc., are some of the pronouns.

Examples of pronouns used in sentences:

• I reached home at six in the evening. (1st person singular pronoun)
• Did someone see a red bag on the counter? (Indefinite pronoun)
• Is this the boy who won the first prize? (Relative pronoun)
• That is my mom. (Possessive pronoun)
• I hurt myself yesterday when we were playing cricket. (Reflexive pronoun)

3. Verbs are words that denote an action that is being performed by the noun or the subject in a sentence. They are also called action words. Some examples of verbs are read, sit, run, pick, garnish, come, pitch, etc.

Examples of verbs used in sentences:

• She plays cricket every day.
• Darshana and Arul are going to the movies.
• My friends visited me last week.
• Did you have your breakfast?
• My name is Meenakshi Kishore.

4. Adverbs are words that are used to provide more information about verbs, adjectives and other adverbs used in a sentence. There are five main types of adverbs namely, adverbs of manner , adverbs of degree , adverbs of frequency , adverbs of time and adverbs of place . Some examples of adverbs are today, quickly, randomly, early, 10 a.m. etc.

Examples of adverbs used in sentences:

• Did you come here to buy an umbrella? (Adverb of place)
• I did not go to school yesterday as I was sick. (Adverb of time)
• Savio reads the newspaper everyday . (Adverb of frequency)
• Can you please come quickly ? (Adverb of manner)
• Tony was so sleepy that he could hardly keep his eyes open during the meeting. (Adverb of degree)

5. Adjectives are words that are used to describe or provide more information about the noun or the subject in a sentence. Some examples of adjectives include good, ugly, quick, beautiful, late, etc.

Examples of adjectives used in sentences:

• The place we visited yesterday was serene .
• Did you see how big that dog was?
• The weather is pleasant today.
• The red dress you wore on your birthday was lovely.
• My brother had only one chapati for breakfast.

6. Prepositions are words that are used to link one part of the sentence to another. Prepositions show the position of the object or subject in a sentence. Some examples of prepositions are in, out, besides, in front of, below, opposite, etc.

Examples of prepositions used in sentences:

• The teacher asked the students to draw lines on the paper so that they could write in straight lines.
• The child hid his birthday presents under his bed.
• Mom asked me to go to the store near my school.
• The thieves jumped over the wall and escaped before we could reach home.

7. Conjunctions are a part of speech that is used to connect two different parts of a sentence, phrases and clauses . Some examples of conjunctions are and, or, for, yet, although, because, not only, etc.

Examples of conjunctions used in sentences:

• Meera and Jasmine had come to my birthday party.
• Jane did not go to work as she was sick.
• Unless you work hard, you cannot score good marks.
• I have not finished my project,  yet I went out with my friends.

8. Interjections are words that are used to convey strong emotions or feelings. Some examples of interjections are oh, wow, alas, yippee, etc. It is always followed by an exclamation mark.

Examples of interjections used in sentences:

• Wow ! What a wonderful work of art.
• Alas ! That is really sad.
• Yippee ! We won the match.

Sentence Examples for the 8 Parts of Speech

• Noun – Tom lives in New York .
• Pronoun – Did she find the book she was looking for?
• Verb – I reached home.
• Adverb – The tea is too hot.
• Adjective – The movie was amazing .
• Preposition – The candle was kept under the table.
• Conjunction – I was at home all day, but I am feeling very tired.
• Interjection – Oh ! I forgot to turn off the stove.

Let us find out if you have understood the different parts of speech and their functions. Try identifying which part of speech the highlighted words belong to.

• My brother came home  late .
• I am a good girl.
• This is the book I  was looking for.
• Whoa ! This is amazing .
• The climate  in  Kodaikanal is very pleasant.
• Can you please pick up Dan and me on  your way home?

Now, let us see if you got it right. Check your answers.

• My – Pronoun, Home – Noun, Late – Adverb
• Am – Verb, Good – Adjective
• I – Pronoun, Was looking – Verb
• Whoa – Interjection, Amazing – Adjective
• Climate – Noun, In – Preposition, Kodaikanal – Noun, Very – Adverb
• And – Conjunction, On – Preposition, Your – Pronoun

What are parts of speech?

The term ‘parts of speech’ refers to words that perform different functions in a sentence  in order to give the sentence a proper meaning and structure.

How many parts of speech are there?

There are 8 parts of speech in total.

What are the 8 parts of speech?

Nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, adjectives, prepositions, conjunctions and interjections are the 8 parts of speech.

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Part of Speech

Interjection: definition and examples.

The interjection is a part of speech which is more commonly used in informal language than in formal writing or speech. Basically, the function of interjections is to express emotions or sudden bursts of feelings. They can express a wide variety of emotions such as: excitement, joy, surprise, or disgust.

What are the Structures and Importance of Interjections?

Interjections can come in the form of a single word, a phrase, or even a short clause. Aside from that, they are usually (but not always) placed at the beginning of a sentence. The importance of interjections lies in the fact that they can convey feelings that may sometimes be neglected in the sentence.

Take for example, the sentence “ That book is about vampires .”

One person can write it as:

• That book is about vampires.

But then again, another person might use an interjection to show the same feeling of disgust (as in sentence number 2):

• Eww ! That book is about vampires.

So you see from the sentence above that the word “eww” conveys the emotional response to what is said in the sentence. It can act as a replacement for emoticons and are more appropriate to use in writing, especially in character dialogues.

What are the Different Kinds of Interjections?

Below are the different kinds of interjections:

• Adjectives that are used as interjections.
• Nice ! You got a Monster Kill in your first game!
• Sweet! I got a PS4 for my birthday!
• Good! Now we can move on to the next lesson.

The italicized words in the sample sentences above are just some of the adjectives that can be used as interjections.

• Nouns or noun phrases that are used as interjections.
• Congratulations , you won the match.
• Hello! How are you?
• Holy cow ! I forgot my keys!

The italicized parts of the sentences above are just some of the nouns that can be used as interjections.

• Short clauses that are used as interjections.
• Shawie is our chemistry teacher. Oh, the horror!

The short clause that is italicized in the example above functions as an interjection.

• Some interjections are sounds .
• Ugh! I’m never doing that again!
• Whew! That was really close!
• Uh-oh! Dude, I think we’re in serious trouble.

How do You Punctuate Interjections?

Since interjections convey different kinds of emotions, there are also different ways to punctuate them.

• Exclamation point

The exclamation point is the most commonly used punctuation mark for interjections. Obviously, it is used to communicate strong emotions such as surprise, excitement, or anger.

• I just replaced your sugar with salt. Bazinga!
• Hooray! I got the job!
• Hey! Stop messing with me!
• Ouch! That must’ve hurt really bad!
• Oh! They’re here!
• Boo-yah ! This is the bomb!
• Are you still going to eat that? Yuck!
• Yahoo! I got my Christmas bonus!
• Eek! There’s a flying cockroach!
• Period or comma

For weaker emotions, a period or a comma will suffice.

• What’s the answer to number 24?
• Meh , who cares?
• Ah, that feels great!
• Oh well, what’s done is done.
• Well, what did your mom say?
• Um… I don’t think so.
• Hmm, your house always smells like freshly brewed coffee.
• Question mark

If you intend to use interjections to express uncertainty or disbelief, it is more appropriate to use a question mark.

• Huh? What did you just say?
• What? You still haven’t submitted your project?
• Oh, really? I never thought he’s that kind of guy.

What are Other Examples of Interjections?

Final Thoughts

Although interjections may seem trivial, the reality is that this part of speech is very important because it can sometimes be difficult to express emotions in written language. Emoticons may not be appropriate or possible under certain circumstances, so using interjections proves to be a more viable option. Just remember all the substantial information provided in this article, especially when it comes to using the proper punctuation marks to convey intensity, and you will surely be able to use this part of speech effectively in your own written text.

Biden appears to read script instructions out loud in latest teleprompter gaffe: 'Four more years, pause'

President Biden seemed to suffer a verbal slip-up during a speech at a trade union conference in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday.

Biden, reading off a teleprompter, appeared to incorporate script instructions in the middle of his speech, resulting in an awkward applause line. The moment came during a section of his remarks straight out of a campaign stump speech.

"I see an America where we defend democracy, not diminish it. I see an America, where we protect freedoms, not take them away," Biden said. "I see an economy that grows a lot in the bottom up where the wealthy pay their fair share, so we can have child care, paid leave and so much more, and still reduce the federal deficit and increase economic folks.

"Imagine what we could do next. Four more years, pause," he said before laughing.

TRUMP ‘VERY HONORED' BY DESANTIS ENDORSEMENT AFTER FLORIDA GOVERNOR SUSPENDS PRESIDENTIAL RUN

Biden attended Wednesday's conference to receive an endorsement from the North American Building Trades Unions (NABTU).

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FLORIDA NO LONGER IN PLAY AS A SWING STATE AS GOP VOTERS SURGE OVER DEMS BY NEARLY 900K: DESANTIS

Throughout his speech, he blasted former President Donald Trump as being anti-union and a defender of the ultra-wealthy. He went on to contrast his and Trump's economic policies as the "Scranton" plan and the "Mar-a-lago" plan, referring to his hometown and Trump's residence.

Biden's teleprompter mix-up is only the latest in the president's long list of gaffes. Just on Tuesday, Biden delivered fodder to conservative commentators by mistakenly saying he and his party "can't be trusted."

Biden was speaking at a Florida campaign rally at the time, focusing on abortion in particular. During his critique of Trump's abortion stance, he flipped the tables on himself.

"I don’t know why we’re surprised by Trump. How many times does he have to prove we can't be trusted?" Biden said.

BIDEN ONCE RIPPED 'ANTISEMITIC BILE' BUT NOW FACES OWN 'CHARLOTTESVILLE MOMENT'

Audience members could be heard laughing after his comment, but Biden continued, seemingly not noticing the mistake.

Biden's critics on X, formerly Twitter, had a field day with the gaffe, with many saying they were surprised to find themselves agreeing with the president.

Original article source: Biden appears to read script instructions out loud in latest teleprompter gaffe: 'Four more years, pause'

Watch CBS News

Northwestern University students set up pro-Palestine tent encampment on campus

By Todd Feurer , Marybel Gonzalez , Sabrina Franza

Updated on: April 25, 2024 / 11:25 PM CDT / CBS Chicago

EVANSTON, Ill. (CBS) --  Dozens of Northwestern University students on Thursday joined the pro-Palestine protests sweeping college campuses across the country .

A group of Northwestern students set up a tent encampment Thursday morning in Deering Meadow on the university's campus in Evanston. Deering Meadow is an open space known for being a site for informal gatherings and rallies.

Protesters also posted a sign reading "Free Gaza Liberated Zone." Pro-Palestinian protesters at college campuses across the country have described similar encampments as "liberated zones."

"We created this community all across the U.S. of college students who are fighting for what they believe is right," a student said.

Organizers with the Northwestern chapters of Educators for Justice in Palestine, Jewish Voice for Peace, Student Liberation Union accused the university of censoring pro-Palestinian speech on campus.

"The ongoing ethnic cleansing and genocide of the people of Gaza has made Palestinians victims of what is one of the most brutal war crimes in modern history. Because of this, Northwestern students, faculty, and staff are putting their bodies, education, and jobs on the line to stand with the Palestinian people," the groups said in a statement. "Northwestern students report the administration is curtailing free speech. The school is intimidating both students and educators who speak out against Israeli apartheid and occupation. The student liberation encampment will create a safe space for those who want to show their support of the Palestinian people."

Several protesters were wearing Keffiyehs – traditional Arab headdresses – and others were waving Palestinian flags. Many protesters also wore masks or bandanas covering their faces.

Organizers of the Northwestern protest said they plan to occupy the area until Northwestern divests itself from companies that support Israel amid the ongoing war in Gaza, and vows to protect their free speech rights on campus.

The students are also calling on Northwestern to divest from its partnerships and programs with Israel, such as the Israel Innovation Project. The university has several programs with Israel, including exchanges, visiting scholars, and study abroad programs. Northwestern also partners with academic institutions in Israel. 

"What we push for right here is just like, we value all forms of life, and we really push for, you know, prioritization of the people that are starving to death; the people that are really in harm's way," a student said. "We have hospitals being bombed. We have schools being bombed."

The protest began around 7 a.m. After police tried to take down some of the tents, protesters linked arms and formed a ring around the encampment around 9:30 a.m., and kept the human chain in place for hours afterward. No arrests have been reported.

Organizers said an online petition listing their demands has collected more than 1,500 signatures so far. In the resolution, students said, "American academic institutions have become hostile spaces for anti-war, anti-apartheid, and pro-Palestine speech."

"Northwestern University is no exception, curtailing speech and intimidating students and educators. We call on President Schill to condemn the targeted harassment of students and the disproportionate censorship of pro-Palestine speech, to affirm and protect student civil liberties, and to build a safe environment for intellectual and political expression," the petition states.

Northwestern officials said the tent encampment is prohibited by university policies. 

University President Michael Schill sent a letter to students on Thursday morning, announcing an "interim addendum" to the Northwestern code of conduct, effective immediately, banning the installation of tents or other temporary structures on Northwestern property, except for school-approved events. 

In his letter, Schill wrote that recent protests in Evanston related to the war in Gaza have interfered with classes. He also cited "chalkings, flyers, banners and chants that many have found hateful, intimidating, offensive and difficult to avoid."

"The goal of this addendum is to balance the right to peacefully demonstrate with our goal to protect our community, to avoid disruptions to instruction and to ensure University operations can continue unabated," Schill wrote. "Any violation of the rules contained in this document or in our policies could lead to disciplinary actions such as suspension or expulsion, and possibly criminal sanctions."

The student code of conduct had already required advance approval for the use of any sound amplification devices, including bullhorns, on Northwestern property. In some cases, permits might be required from the City of Evanston.

Another existing university policy also stated Northwestern has "the right to limit demonstrations to specific times and locations if it determines such limitations are necessary to protect the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff or the operations of the University."

The university said campus police and representatives from the school's Student Affairs division were working with protesters to have the tents removed.

"Northwestern is committed to the principles of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly – and to protecting the safety of all members of our community, as well as limiting disruptions to University operations," Northwestern spokesman Jon Yates said.

Officials warned anyone who refuses to remove tents faces the risk of arrest and having their tents removed by police. A few tents were removed by police earlier Thursday, but as of the late afternoon, most were still up.

The university also was prohibiting non-student news media from entering the meadow to cover the protest.

"We are going to be here until Northwestern meets our demands," a student said.

University students, who asked that their names be withheld, protested what they said was Northwestern's support of Israel.

"Our demands are that that they disclose their investment - because we don't know what are tuition money is funding - that they divest from genocide and from Israel; that they cut ties with Israel; and that they protect student protesters," the student said.

The students spoke to CBS 2 through a metal fence that separates Deering Meadow from the sidewalk.  

"The university simply does not tell us where our funds and tuition dollars are going; where our tuition dollars are going—and that is unacceptable," another student said. "There needs to be more transparency between administration and the student body."

Some residents of the area were impressed by the protesters' message and commitment. Evanston resident Toni Gilpin was holding a protest sign herself.

"We're Evanston residents, and I'm just really thrilled to see this many students out showing their solidarity; their peaceful commitment to protest," said Gilpin, "and I really hope Northwestern listens to them, and divests, and lets them peacefully protest as they are doing."

Students said they feel the movement is not antisemitic.

"People often conflate this movement with antisemitism, and I wouldn't agree," a student said. "I think antisemitism is very real and very present in this world, but I don't think it's coming from this movement."

"Anti-Zionism that is not antisemitism," another student said.

The students noted that some of the protesters were Jewish themselves.

"There are a lot of Jewish students in this crowd, and we've been standing in solidarity with Gaza," said a student, "understanding that 'never again' means 'never again for anyone.'"

Smaller groups of students, at times, held the Israeli flag on the edge of the encampment in a counterprotest.  Some Jewish students told CBS 2 they feel unsafe on campus , and worry about the effect the protest will have.

One passerby was also seen tearing down some of the protesters' posters.    

Meanwhile, a student who was part of the protest called the notice from the university and Schill threatening, and said demonstrators were being warned of suspension and other disciplinary measures – as has happened at other universities around the country.

"We all got an email from President Schill of the university, and he said in that email that students were potentially going to get arrested, suspended, expelled," the student said, "and these are very bold threats that he told us right off the bat."

Protests have grown heated around the country

Protests on several other college campuses across the country have led to clashes with police, and in some cases complaints of antisemitic behavior by demonstrators.

Boston Police arrested more than 100 protesters at a pro-Palestinian encampment at Emerson College early Thursday morning.  

More than 100 people have been arrested at Columbia University in New York since similar protests began last week.  Columbia University's president cancelled in-person classes Monday in response to the protests and  said classes would be hybrid  through the end of the semester.

Some  Jewish students at Columbia say  many of the protesters' chants are antisemitic, and they're concerned about their safety. 

More than 100 protesters were arrested at New York University on Monday , and police said demonstrators threw objects, including bottles, at officers during the arrests.

Police  arrested 45 protesters  at Yale University on Monday after the demonstrators repeatedly refused to disperse voluntarily.

Police arrested 93 people at University of Southern California after many protesters refused repeated orders to disperse after setting up an encampment on the Los Angeles campus.

Protesters have also spread to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Demonstrators took over the streets of Champaign Thursday night, accusing the university of funding weapons used against Palestinians. U of I protesters also tried entering an administration building.

Other universities that have seen on-campus protests this week included University of California, Berkeley ; California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt ; the University of Michigan ; the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Tufts University, and Emerson College.

• Northwestern University

Todd Feurer is a web producer at CBS News Chicago. He has previously written for WBBM Newsradio, WUIS-FM, and the New City News Service.

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‘Dead Boy Detectives’ Stars Jayden Revri and George Rexstrew on Going to Hell and Edwin’s Soul-Bearing Confession to Charles

By Hunter Ingram

Hunter Ingram

• ‘Dead Boy Detectives’ Stars Jayden Revri and George Rexstrew on Going to Hell and Edwin’s Soul-Bearing Confession to Charles 11 hours ago
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SPOILER ALERT: This post contains spoilers from the entire first season of “ Dead Boy Detectives ,” now streaming on Netflix.

A good friend answers when you call. A best friend goes to literal Hell to save you from a giant spider made of charred doll parts stalking you through the halls of an eternal nightmare. And there is no better friend in this world or the next than Charles Rowland ( Jayden Revri ).

Popular on Variety

They make a run for it with the doll-spider on their heels, but before they can literally ascend the stairway out of hell and reunite with the land of the living –– even if they aren’t –– Edwin takes the inopportune opportunity to confess the secret he has kept from his best friend. Through a mixture of tears and relief, he says the words: He’s in love with Charles, who responds to his friend’s honesty by reassuring him that while he doesn’t hold romantic affection for Edwin, there is no one else he would go to Hell for.

Rexstrew and Revri didn’t have a chance to second guess how they would play this crucial moment, because they were at the end of a long shooting day and literally buckled in for safety.

Revri adds: “Whenever there was a scene that was filled with emotion like that, and had a lot of depth to it, I always remember me and George being in his room, late hours of the night and even early hours of the morning, really prepping. We would use whatever props we could find to prepare for a scene. I can just remember me and George going through that scene over and over again before we ever stepped on set. We knew how it would go.”

The episode also features flashbacks to the first time Edwin and Charles meet: a collection of deeply personal scenes shot at breakneck speed, according to the actors. Elsewhere, their living clairvoyant friend Crystal Palace (Kassius Nelson) finally exorcizes her demon ex-boyfriend from her head with the help of ancestral magic, a roller rink and a Belinda Carlisle song. It is the decisive episode of the season and, yet, it isn’t even the finale. Rather, it serves as a penultimate appetizer for a fight that determines the future of the Dead Boys Detective Agency.

Over the course of the show’s first season, the boys, Crystal and their new friend Niko (Yuyu Kitamura) fend off the Cat King (Lukas Gage), the predatory overlord of stray cats who traps them in Port Townsend to get closer to Edwin; and Esther (Jenn Lyon), a centuries-old witch stealing children to feed a giant snake in her basement that keeps her young and beautiful. In the finale, Esther ensnares Charles and Edwin in her trap to drain Edwin of the anguish he endured in Hell, which acts as a lifeblood cocktail for the witch. But Charles, Crystal and Niko come to the rescue, only for the latter to be killed fighting to save her friends. Don’t cry too many tears for Niko, though — a stinger on the finale teases she mysteriously survived, and is holed up in an igloo.

Retreating to their home turf in London, the boys are allowed to continue solving cases with the help of Crystal and their new overseer, the cranky Night Nurse (Ruth Connell) from the Afterlife Lost & Found Department, who spent the season trying to force them to move on.

After you catch your breath from a nonstop season of supernatural hijinks, Rexstrew and Revri talked to Variety about building their on-and-off screen friendship, the massive undertaking of Episode 7 and what they are already itching to do in a possible Season 2.

George, this is your first major screen role. What was it like to go full supernatural detective as Edwin right out of the gate?

Jayden Revri: He isn’t giving himself enough credit. Even though this was his first role, you would never have known the whole time. He taught me more than I probably taught him.

Rexstrew: You should also know that Jayden is a compulsive liar, and you can’t believe a word he says.

We come into Edwin and Charles’ friendship 30 years on, and see just how strong it is in that opening scene as they hide from Death, played by “The Sandman’s” Kirby. It’s not easy to represent such a deep bond right away. How did you manage that?

Revri: We were super blessed, because we started this whole process together. We literally met outside Heathrow Airport and ventured off into the terminal to Vancouver together. You know, sometimes you just meet certain people in your life, and you know that it was kind of meant to be. We just hit it off straight away, and we were so open about our processes and how we were feeling about everything from the start.

The thing with Charles and Edwin, they are just two guys who have this thing in common that not a lot of other people share, and they want the same thing out of it. That brotherhood that they have with each other, me and George found that with each other straight away. I’m not going to lie, it was the easiest thing I’ve ever had to do was act alongside him.

Rexstrew: The thing about me and Jayden, and Edwin and Charles, is that we don’t take ourselves too seriously but we take the work seriously.

Visually, these two guys have to be distinctive because they are from two different times, and they carry themselves differently. Did you work on posture and style to get them just right?

Rexstrew: Speaking for myself, I started with Edwin’s physicality. I got a sense of how he moved from reading the comics, and I used that as a starting point and built it from there. But there were times where Jayden and I would explore it together. I remember when we were filming the pilot, we would walk around Vancouver pretending to be Edwin and Charles, and it just all kind of fell into place naturally.

Revri: It really did. In terms of physicality, they are just both such polar opposites. Edwin is very upright and always presents himself to the best of his ability. Charles is very loose and is just Charles. I think the physicality aspect made the acting so much easier as well, if that makes sense.

The whole season is a ride, but Episode 7 is the real peak of action and emotion. Can you talk about filming that episode? Because it returns Edwin to Hell, but it is also Charles’ first peek into what his friend has been through.

Rexstrew: Filming that episode was a particularly intense experience, because it features the flashback to when Edwin and Charles first meet. There were seven mini scenes, I believe, and we filmed them in five or six hours.

Revri: I think it was even less than that.

Revri: I think that was the peak of both of our arcs. I mean, it is the first time the audience sees why Edwin has this facade about him and why he is the way he is, and you really feel for him. And I think that is the first time Charles really looks at him and says, “I cannot believe this is what you have been through.” And obviously everything Charles has been through as well, trying to work out if he is the good guy or the bad guy. Is he like his dad, or like Brad and Hunter [the jocks from Episode 5]?

I think this is the episode when he puts all of that aside and says, “I’m a good guy, and so is Edwin. And I’m going to go save him.” That is one of my favorite episodes, and yes, it was a blur filming it. But I know that me and George just kind of carried each other through that 10 days of filming. I am, and I think George is as well, very proud of that episode.

Rexstrew: On top of the incredible set design and visual effects in that episode, what is very special to me is the portrayal of Edwin and Charles’ relationship and the apex it does reach. I think something that is special about our show is it views the male-on-male love dynamic in a non-sexualized way, which is something we don’t see as much these days in film and television.

Revri: They say your first love is your first best friend, and I think that is true for Charles and Edwin.

Can you talk about how you both played the moment when Edwin confesses his love to Charles?

Rexstrew: Logistically, it was quite difficult to film, because we were pressed for time, and Jayden and I were attached to harnesses and rope. Obviously, there were safety ramifications to consider. There were like 10 mats in case either of us fell on those steps. I did take myself off beforehand, just for 30 seconds. Edwin is just trying to say what he means. Edwin is fundamentally and emotionally repressed. He excels in so many different areas, but emotional communication and understanding his emotions aren’t among those strengths. He muddles through it. I don’t think it required too much preparation for me, because I knew all that about him before this moment. He just has to get it out and leave it behind him in Hell.

Revri: Whenever there was a scene that was filled with emotion like that, and had a lot of depth to it, I always remember me and George being in his room, late hours of the night and even early hours of the morning, really prepping. We would use whatever props we could find to prepare for a scene. I can just remember me and George going through that scene over and over again before we ever stepped on set. We knew how it would go. On them days when you are pressed for time, you can pull the scene out just like that.

All season, we are watching two external factors breach this 30-year friendship in Crystal, who Charles has found an affection for, and Niko, who has broken down Edwin’s cagey facade. What is it about these two that crack open the detective agency?

Revri: I think for Charles, you find out in Episode 4 that he puts on this brave face, and maybe being dead isn’t his favorite thing in the world. The fact that he finds a human that can see him, it just kind of sucks him in, and he becomes completely infatuated with her very quickly. And I’m speaking for George here, but I think Crystal coming into the agency really does a lot for Edwin and Charles. She kind of brings Charles up, and even Edwin up at the same time. At the start, you can see the way they are with each other, and how they are by the end. And it was great for me being able to be Charles in those moments because I remember filming the pilot when there were so many points when George and Kassius would be going at it and I would always be in the middle.

Rexstrew: I would say initially, Edwin harbors huge resentment for Crystal, because she poses a very real threat to his relationship with Charles. Before Crystal, Edwin thinks of his existence as pretty simple. He thinks of himself as the best detective in the world and he has his best friend, Charles Rowland. Period. But I do think she ends up teaching him a lot about friendship, and she causes a softening in Edwin.

In terms of Niko, I think of her as the architect of love in the show. When I think of Edwin’s journey in the show, it is too easy to just label it as an awakening of sexuality. It is deeper than that. It is a learning of how to love and I think Niko provides a very gentle, sensitive touch and approach to allow Edwin to learn that essential thing, which is just wanting love and to be loved. That helps him with what he tells Charles in Episode 7.

What do you want to see these guys get into next if you get a second season? The agency has certainly expanded by the finale.

Revri: What about Drag Boy Detectives, George?

Rexstrew: I’m down for that! I would love to solve some cases in the U.K. as well. What is great about our show is that ghosts and supernatural crimes exist everywhere, so the possibilities are endless.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

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