Formality in Writing - Worksheet
Formality is an important feature of writing (and speaking). Using the wrong level of formality can make your writing ineffective. Imagine sending an informal text message as an official letter to a government official. The official might be offended, might not understand or might think you rude or crazy.
- Here are some examples of language. Write the letter of each example in the correct column in the boxes below according to its level of formality. (Some examples can go in two boxes.)
A
Hi
B
I would be extremely grateful if you could please ...
C
I’m afraid I need to tell you ...
D
Nevertheless
E
He descended from the train at the subsequent station
F
To sum up
G
c. u.
H
Could you please ...
I
Her grandmother was unable to accompany her.
J
Her grandmother couldn’t go with her.
K
I look forward to hearing from you.
L
My essay is all about ...
M
The sort of stuff people believe these days is rubbish.
N
So, what have I been saying basically?
O
I would like to turn now to the next point in my argument.
P
In this essay I am going to outline ...
Q
You’ve no idea how angry I am.
R
It is with considerable regret that I express my displeasure at …
S
Unfortunately, I am rather angry ...
T
Send me a new form, will you?
Formal
Neutral (Semi-formal)
Informal
- From looking at the above examples, can you identify any of the language characteristics of different degrees of formality?
