Formal vs Informal Language Usage

The video tutorial by BBC Learning English explores the differences between formal and informal English. It highlights how language choice can impact impressions, similar to attire in a job interview. The tutorial analyzes an informal email, identifying features like vocabulary, abbreviations, and sentence structure that make it informal. It provides guidance on making language more formal by using appropriate vocabulary, passive structures, and complex sentences. The video concludes with a call to visit the BBC Learning English website for more resources.

Why is it important to choose the right level of formality in language?

• To make conversations more interesting

• To confuse the listener

• To avoid giving a bad impression

• To impress others with your vocabulary

What was the main issue with the email example provided in the video?

• It was too formal for the context

• It was too informal for the context

• It was too long

• It was too short

What is a common feature of informal emails?

• Use of complex sentences

• Use of passive voice

• Use of technical jargon

• Use of abbreviations

Which of the following is a more formal alternative to 'find out'?

• Discover

• Look for

• Search

• Enquire

Which of the following is NOT a feature of informal language?

• Use of abbreviations

• Use of passive voice

• Use of contractions

• Use of phrasal verbs

What is the formal equivalent of the abbreviation 'uni'?

• Union

• Unity

• Universal

• University

What is the formal equivalent of 'at the mo'?

• Currently

• At the time

• Presently

• At the moment

In formal writing, which structure is often preferred?

• Interrogative

• Active

• Passive

• Imperative

What is the purpose of using passive structures in formal writing?

• To make the sentence longer

• To make the writing more casual

• To emphasize the action rather than the subject

• To confuse the reader

How can you make a sentence more complex in formal writing?

• By shortening the sentence

• By using more verbs

• By adding relative pronouns or linkers

• By using more adjectives