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Types of Register in English Writing

The document discusses different types of language registers in linguistics, categorizing them into familiar, informal, formal, and ceremonial registers. Each category is explained with examples illustrating the varying levels of formality and appropriateness in different contexts. The document also includes a formality scale to visually represent the spectrum of register types.

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Kotrobel Naghmouchi
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121 views3 pages

Types of Register in English Writing

The document discusses different types of language registers in linguistics, categorizing them into familiar, informal, formal, and ceremonial registers. Each category is explained with examples illustrating the varying levels of formality and appropriateness in different contexts. The document also includes a formality scale to visually represent the spectrum of register types.

Uploaded by

Kotrobel Naghmouchi
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

OXFORD INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF TUNIS S.Y.

2020-2021

Ms. Kotrobel Naghmouchi Date:

Subject: English Topic: Register types

A register, in linguistics, is the way people use different words, spelling or grammar—talk or write
differently—to different people, in different situations. They might be more polite to strangers, for
example. Or they will be more respectful to their boss at work.
.
Formality scale

This diagram is from Quirk et al. (1985), who use the term attitude rather than style or register.

Very formal ← FORMAL Normal INFORMAL → Very informal

(semi formal) (familiar)

This chart shows the words or phrases that one would use depending on different registers:

Register Phrase

Very informal "Ey!" or "Yo!" or "Wassup!"

Informal "Hey!" or "Hi!"

Formal "Hello!"

Very formal "Good morning/afternoon/evening!"

1
Register can be separated into four categories: familiar, informal,
formal and ceremonial. The following will explain each category and provide a
corresponding example.

'Familiar'
This register is normally used between people who know each other well. Features of this
register show a lack of grammar, spelling, punctuation and usually contains slang and jargon.
For example:
Hey,
Will arrive evening. Did not catch bus.
Later
John

'Informal'
Generally journalism and occasionally academic writing use this register. When using an informal
register, there is usually a close relationship between the writer, audience and topic with a
degree of casualness. However, care must be taken in order not to mistake informal for familiar
registers. The features of this register are different from the familiar register as more care
is taken with grammar etc. However, the tone is conversational, using colloquial language,
compared to the formal register.
For example:
While I was on my way to the Science Lab., a thought struck me that perhaps all that we think
is possible, may not be. For example, a friend and I were contemplating the prospect of dumping
our classes and hanging out in our favourite café instead. We found that what we thought was
possible, actually wasn't as our lecturer intervened on our way, ending up that we attended class
anyway. Does this mean that what we originally thought was possible, can't be, as something will
always intervene? How does this affect prediction and planning?

'Formal'
A formal register is neither colloquial nor personal and is the register that is mostly used in
academic writing. It is a register where strong opinions can be expressed objectively, it does
not break any of the rules of written grammar and often has a set of rules of what not to do
when using this register. The following extract is from Crystal's book: A dictionary of
linguistics and phonetics (Crystal, 1997).
For example:
Several stages of development have been distinguished in the first year of a child's life when it
develops the skills necessary to produce a successful first word. According to Crystal (1997),

2
primitive vocal sounds are displayed within the first two months with basic features of speech
such as the ability to control air flow and produce rhythmic utterance. Sounds such as cooing,
quieter sounds with a lower pitch and more musical develop between six and eight weeks of age.
Cooing dies away around three and four months and then a period called vocal play develops; an
experimental stage, where a baby has more control and experiments with vocal practise.

'Ceremonial'

Ceremonial register is exactly how it sounds. This is the kind of language you'll see in older
texts, like Shakespeare, the King James Bible, Tennyson's poetry, and so on. It uses a lot of
archaic language, and often has unnecessary amounts of adjectives, with unusual or outdated
sentence structures. Modern academic writing rarely uses this register. Sometimes, it may be
encountered when reading transcripts of speeches or historical documents.
For example:
‘I stand on this rostrum with a sense of deep humility and great pride - humility in the wake of
those great architects of our history who have stood here before me, pride in the reflection
that this home of legislative debate represents human liberty in the purest form yet devised.
Here are centered the hopes and aspirations and faith of the entire human race.’
(General MacArthur's Address to Congress April 19, 1951: Old soldiers never die they just fade
away extracted from the American Experience homepage)

Common questions

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Features of the 'informal' register, such as the use of everyday language and a conversational tone, create a sense of closeness and familiarity between the writer, audience, and topic. This register helps readers feel more engaged and connected to the material, as it reduces the perceived distance that formal language can create .

The register in academic writing is crucial for maintaining objectivity, clarity, and respect. A formal register helps present complex ideas clearly, ensuring they are communicated accurately without personal bias or colloquial interference. This register helps maintain the credibility and professionalism of academic discourse .

Using an inappropriate register can create misunderstandings or discomfort. For instance, using a very informal register in a formal setting may be perceived as disrespectful, while overly formal language in a casual setting can create distance and inhibit authentic communication. The impact depends on cultural norms and the expectations within a particular context .

The 'familiar' register is characterized by a lack of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and the inclusion of slang and jargon. This register is typically used between people who know each other well, reflecting a casual and relaxed communication style .

The 'formal' register differs from the 'informal' register in that it avoids colloquial language and personal expressions, adhering strictly to written grammar rules. Formal register is used mainly in academic writing to present strong opinions objectively, while informal register is more conversational and may use colloquial expressions, typically maintaining a casual tone .

Register in linguistics affects language use by dictating different words, spelling, or grammar based on the context or relationship between the speakers. For instance, people use more polite and respectful language when addressing strangers or superiors compared to friends. Registers can range from very formal to very informal, influencing the choice and formality of expressions used in communication .

Language evolution from 'ceremonial' to more modern registers can be seen in the reduction of archaic language and unnecessary adjectives, leading to simpler and more direct sentence structures. Modern academic and formal writing emphasizes clarity and precision over the floral and complex language of ceremonial registers .

The ceremonial register in historical speeches is exemplified through the use of archaic language, extensive adjectives, and unusual sentence structures. For example, General MacArthur's Address to Congress includes phrases that invoke a sense of historicity and formal solemnity, reflecting the ceremonial nature of the speech .

Maintaining a consistent register in professional settings is essential to uphold the organization's culture, ensure clear communication, and foster respect. A consistent formal register helps avoid misunderstandings, maintain professionalism, and encourage respectful interaction. Inconsistencies in register could lead to misinterpretations and diminish perceived professionalism .

Differentiating 'informal' from 'familiar' registers can be challenging because both utilize casual language. However, informal registers maintain grammatical integrity and avoid overly personal or slang-filled expressions, which are common in the familiar register. The overlap in tone and casualness between these registers can make distinct boundaries difficult to identify .

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