30 Unit 02 | It’s all relative Expand your vocabulary: Formal and informal register Work with a partner. Which of the adjectives below describe language more likely to be used in formal contexts, which in informal contexts? Which kinds of language could be used in both? Highlight the adjectives in different colours. What other words can you think of that describe language? LANGUAGE 19 How does that register? a appropriate b chatty c colloquial d conversational e disrespectful f euphemistic g polite h inappropriate i incoherent j impolite k offensive l proper m rude n vague o emotional Collect expressions that you would use when talking to an English-speaking friend, but never when talking to your English teacher. Then provide examples of how these expressions can be adapted to make them appropriate for the teacher (e.g. I screwed up – I made a mistake). Why is it important to understand the differences between registers? Brainstorm ideas with your partner, then use the words from 19 to complete the text below. 20 21 Striking the right tone In professional settings, it’s not only important to be understood, but also to be (1) p . Using the register that is (2) a for the situation is a key aspect of effective communication. In conversations with managers or employers, you risk sounding (3) r if you use language that is too (4) c . You should avoid swearing – (5) o language is obviously (6) i in a professional environment – as well as excessive slang. While there is nothing wrong with being friendly and (7) c , you don’t want to come across as (8) d or even (9) i . In formal texts such as reports, too (10) c a writing style can hurt your credibility. Understanding the (11) p register for different forms of communication is therefore crucial if you want to be taken seriously, especially in the workplace. Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigentum des Verlags öbv
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