Mastering the right vocabulary for different social settings is a key part of becoming a confident English speaker. Whether you're writing an email to your boss or chatting with a friend, choosing between formal and informal words can completely change the tone of your message. In this guide, we’ll explore common vocabulary used in both formal and informal situations, provide practical examples, and offer memory tips to help you remember when and how to use these words appropriately.
Understanding formal vs. informal language
Formal language is used in professional, academic, or serious situations. It’s more polite, structured, and often follows grammar rules closely.
Informal language is more relaxed and casual, used with friends, family, or in everyday conversations.
Examples:
| Formal | Informal |
|---|---|
| I apologize | I'm sorry |
| I would like to | I wanna |
| Assist | Help |
| Purchase | Buy |
| Commence | Start |
| Request | Ask |
| Inform | Tell |
| Do not | Don’t |
Common situations and vocabulary examples
1. Making a request
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Formal: Could you please provide me with more information regarding the event?
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Informal: Can you tell me more about the event?
2. Giving an opinion
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Formal: In my opinion, this approach is highly effective.
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Informal: I think this way really works.
3. Apologizing
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Formal: I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.
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Informal: Sorry about that.
4. Starting a conversation
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Formal: Good morning. How are you today?
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Informal: Hey! How’s it going?
Tips to remember and use vocabulary effectively
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Group words by context: Make vocabulary lists based on situations (e.g., job interview, chatting with friends).
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Use flashcards: Write the formal word on one side and the informal version on the other.
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Practice role-playing: Imagine different situations and practice switching between formal and informal language.
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Watch real-life examples: TV shows, interviews, and YouTube videos are great resources to see how people naturally shift their tone.
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Keep a language journal: Record new vocabulary you hear or use during the day and mark whether it was formal or informal.
Learning how to adapt your vocabulary depending on the situation will not only make you sound more fluent, but also help you communicate more effectively. Practice regularly, observe native speakers, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—language is about connection, not perfection.
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