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All 14 Flashcards — Register: formal vs informal
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Question
register
Answer
the level of formality of language, chosen to suit the reader and situation
Question
formal register
Answer
distant, careful language: no contractions, precise/Latinate words, polite structures
Question
informal register
Answer
close, relaxed language: contractions, everyday words, slang, a friendly tone
Question
neutral register
Answer
a middle level — clear and polite but not stiff (a notice, a report, instructions)
Question
contraction
Answer
a shortened form (can't, I'm, won't) — typical of informal English
Question
phrasal verb
Answer
verb + particle (put off, find out) — usually less formal than a single-word verb
Question
Formal greeting & sign-off
Answer
Dear Ms Carter, … Yours sincerely, / Kind regards,
Question
Informal greeting & sign-off
Answer
Hi Sam! / Hey! … Cheers! / See you soon!
Question
Make this formal: "Can you put off the meeting?"
Answer
"I would be grateful if you could postpone the meeting."
Question
Make this informal: "I am writing to ask for help."
Answer
"I'm just writing to ask if you can help out."
Question
Name three register markers.
Answer
Greeting/sign-off, contractions, word choice (everyday vs Latinate), phrasal vs single-word verbs, request shape.
Question
What decides which register to use?
Answer
The reader and the text type stated in the task (letter to a company = formal; message to a friend = informal).
Question
What is the classic register mistake?
Answer
Mixing registers — e.g. a formal "Dear Sir or Madam" closed with a slangy "Cheers!".
Question
Which Paper 1 criterion most rewards correct register?
Answer
Criterion C (conceptual understanding) — right register, greeting and sign-off for the text type, kept consistent.
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Full study notes for Register: formal vs informal
Topic 3.5 hub
Cohesion & register
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English B exam skills
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