At a glance
Three levels of English
- Formallong words, full forms, passive: We regret to inform you that…
- Neutralpolite everyday English: I'm sorry, but…
- Informalshort forms, phrasal verbs, slang: Sorry, can't make it!
Same meaning, different style
| Informal (friends) | Formal (work, writing) |
|---|---|
| Hi! / Hey! | Good morning. / Dear Ms Lee, |
| Thanks a lot! | Thank you very much. / I am most grateful. |
| Can you…? | Would you mind…? / Could you possibly…? |
| I want… | I would like… |
| get | obtain / receive |
| ask for | request |
| find out | discover |
| need | require |
| buy | purchase |
| But… | However, … |
| Sorry! | I apologise for… / Please accept our apologies. |
| See you! / Cheers! | Kind regards, / Yours sincerely, |
Two emails
Hi Sam, thanks for the photos! See you Friday. Ben
Dear Mr Patel, thank you for your email of 3 May. I look forward to meeting you on Friday. Kind regards, Ben Adams
Tips
- Formal writing avoids contractions: do not (not don't).
- Formal English often uses the passive: It has been decided that…
- Formal English prefers one-word verbs to phrasal verbs: postpone (put off), tolerate (put up with).
Practice
Answer the questions. Get 7 out of 10 to finish this lesson.