Navigating Levels of Formality: A Comprehensive Guide to Social Norms

Levels of formality refer to a set of established conventions where social rules dictate appropriate language usage. Having a good grasp of these levels can greatly benefit you in numerous areas of your life.

Social Settings and Academia

Consider the language you use when talking to your friends versus the language used when communicating with your teachers. The level of formality differs depending on the context. In academic environments, specialized and professional language is often necessary to align with the specific field of study, which significantly influences the level of formality in language.

The Five Levels of Formality

The five levels, also known as registers, of formality are Intimate, Casual, Consultative, Formal, and Frozen. These levels represent varying degrees of language expression.

In 1962, American linguist Martin Joos identified these five levels of formality. The graph below illustrates that the higher the line goes, the more formal the register.

The Intimate Level of Formality

The intimate level of formality is used in informal settings, such as between family members, close friends, and romantic partners. Language at this level can be simple and may include slang and colloquialisms, straying from traditional grammatical norms. While this language may be suitable for informal situations, it would not be appropriate in public, academic, or professional contexts.

For example, in the conversation below, A and B are spouses. Notice how the intimate language they use is fitting for their situation, but would not be suitable in a more formal or professional setting.

• A: Honey, did you get the groceries?
• B: Yep, I'm picking them up now!
• A: Great! Thank you! I'll start making dinner.
• B: I'll help you when I get home. I'm just hopping on the bus. Do you need me to grab anything else from the store?
• A: No, we should have everything for pasta night. Jenny is so excited to decorate!
• B: Give her a kiss for me! I'll see you soon, love!
• A: Can't wait to see you and the groceries!

The Casual Level of Formality

The casual level of formality is used in informal settings, but is not as personal as the intimate level. It is often used among friends and acquaintances, such as classmates and colleagues. Casual language can also include slang and colloquialisms, and can be used in both friendly and hostile conversations.

For instance, in this conversation between two classmates, A and B, you can see that while it is in the casual register, there is still some distance between them, unlike the intimate level where they would be closer friends and use nicknames for each other.

• A: Did you do the homework for English Literature?
• B: Of course! Did you?
• A: Yeah, but I'm not sure how well I did. I have a hard time understanding Shakespeare's language.
• B: Yeah, I get that. You should try using this online dictionary, it really helped me!

This example also highlights how the casual level of formality would not be appropriate in a professional setting, as informal words and phrases such as "English Literature" and "yeah" are not suitable.

The Consultative Level of Formality

The consultative level of formality is used in formal, professional, and academic settings. It is often used in conversations between colleagues, teachers and students, and employers and employees. Participants in the consultative level are expected to address each other with their respective titles and honorifics, such as "sir", "madam", or "doctor". Language at this level may also involve specific jargon or knowledge related to the professional context.

For example, in this conversation between a teacher and a student, you can see the use of titles and honorifics, as well as the teacher's evaluation of the student's work.

• Teacher: Good morning, John.
• Student: Good morning, Miss Nightingale.
• Teacher: I've reviewed your homework, and it's excellent work. Well done!
• Student: Thank you, miss.

When learning a new language, even experienced learners may find themselves needing clarification. In these cases, seeking clarification is always a wise choice, such as when wondering about the meaning behind Shakespeare's use of the term 'the dickens'.

According to a teacher's explanation, 'dickens' in Shakespeare's language is not a reference to the 19th-century author, but rather a euphemism for 'devil'. By understanding this context, confusion can be avoided, and learning can continue with clarity. This type of interaction between teacher and student is common in formal settings, where a professional level of formality is expected.

Understanding Formality in Language

The formal level of formality is typically used in professional and academic environments, such as lectures, speeches, and written analysis. It is characterized by adhering to grammatical conventions, using complex language, and avoiding personal opinions and emotions. This level of formality is most suitable for situations where interaction between the speaker and the audience is not necessary.

For example, a graduation ceremony speech is a perfect example of the formal level of formality. The speaker addresses the audience with respect, acknowledges their achievements, and encourages them for the future. It is important to note that formal language is not the same as having a casual conversation with a friend and should be used accordingly.

(Note: Formal conversations can still occur between colleagues in professional settings.)

The Most Formal Level of Formality

The frozen level of formality is the most formal and rigid form of language. It is often used in formal events and ceremonies, as well as safety briefings. This level relies heavily on conventional phrases and grammar structures, leaving no room for interaction between the speaker and the audience.

For example, take a pre-flight safety briefing. The language used is familiar, but it is also very specific and unchanging, following a strict script that does not allow for any feedback or questions.

The Disappearance of 'Thou'

You may have noticed that the word 'thou' is no longer used in modern English. In the past, 'thou' was used as an informal form of address, while 'you' was reserved for formal situations. Today, the use of 'thou' has been replaced by 'you' in both formal and informal contexts. However, in languages like French and Bulgarian, there are still two distinct forms of address - 'vous' or 'vie' for formal situations and 'tu' or 'ti' for informal situations.

In the works of Shakespeare, we can see the use of 'thou' to address someone in a less formal manner. For example, in a scene from Hamlet, the title character uses 'thou' when speaking to Ophelia, a woman he has been courting. In contrast, another character in Shakespeare's play, Richard II, addresses his adversary with the formal 'you'.

Choosing the Appropriate Level of Formality

The appropriate level of formality depends on the context and situation. Using the wrong level of formality can lead to awkward or uncomfortable interactions. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the different levels of formality and when to use them. This will help you communicate effectively and appropriately in various settings, whether it be at school, work, or with family.

Key Takeaways

• Formality in language is essential for effective communication and social integration in different settings.
• The formal level of formality is typically used in professional and academic environments and does not require interaction between the speaker and the audience.
• The frozen level of formality is the most rigid form and is often used in formal events and ceremonies.
• In modern English, 'thou' has been replaced by 'you' in both formal and informal situations.
• Understanding the appropriate level of formality for different contexts can help avoid any awkward or uncomfortable interactions.

The Importance of Formality in Language

Formality refers to the degree of politeness and seriousness in one's language, and it extends beyond spoken conversations to the written word. The level of formality used can greatly influence how the intended audience perceives the message being conveyed.

There are five recognized levels of formality: Intimate, Casual, Formal, Frozen, and Consultative. Each level has its own distinct characteristics and is suitable for different social situations. In the past, the English language had a distinction between formal and informal pronouns, but over time, the informal "thou" fell out of use, leaving only the formal "you."

The use of different levels of formality is crucial in various contexts, particularly in writing. For example, if an author wants readers to connect with the content of their book, they may use the intimate level of formality. On the other hand, academic writing requires specific and formal language, making the formal level of formality appropriate.

Social norms dictate when formal or informal behavior is acceptable. The use of these levels helps guide our communication patterns and behavior in different social environments and situations.

Therefore, it is vital to understand the various levels of formality and know when to use them appropriately. This knowledge ensures that language is used effectively to convey the intended message in any given context.