Report writting formal and informal:
Bahja mohamud
Roll number 70177482
Department aviation management
Course expository writing
various domains such as language use, social interactions, and professional environments.
Below is an in-depth explanation of the differences between formal and informal
communicatiThe difference between formal and informal communication, or behavior, is
significantacross on, which can manifest in tone, structure, purpose, audience, and emotional
expression.
1. Language Use: Formal vs. Informal
Formal Communication:
Vocabulary and Tone: In formal communication, the language is typically more sophisticated
and precise. It avoids slang, idiomatic expressions, and colloquialisms. Formal language is used
to convey professionalism, respect, and authority. The tone remains polite, objective, and
neutral.
Example: "regarding I would be grateful if you could provide me with the necessary information
the project timeline."
Informal Communication:
Vocabulary and Tone: Informal communication uses simpler, conversational language. It allows
for the use of slang, regional expressions, abbreviations, and contractions. The tone is usually
friendly, relaxed, and personal, reflecting familiarity and comfort.
Example: "Hey, can you send me the project details when you get a chance?"
2. Purpose and Context: Formal vs. Informal
Formal Communication:
Informal Communication:Purpose: The main purpose of formal communication is to maintain
professionalism and clarity in situations where respect and authority are key. It is often used in
business, legal, academic, and governmental contexts where clear, accurate, and structured
communication is required. Formal communication can also be used to create a record or
documentation, such as reports, contracts, or official correspondence.
Context: Examples of formal communication contexts include business emails, academic papers,
official letters, job interviews, presentations, and meetings. These situations require the speaker
or writer to uphold a certain level of decorum and objectivity.
Example: Sending a cover letter to apply for a job, writing a research paper for publication, or
communicating with clients or senior managers in a corporate setting.
Purpose: Informal communication is often used to build and maintain relationships, share
personal experiences, and engage in casual conversation. It is commonly used for day-to-day
interactions that do not require a high level of professionalism. Informal communication is often
characterized by an absence of rigid structures and more relaxed language.
Context: Informal communication is common in social settings among friends, family, and
coworkers who are familiar with each other. It occurs in casual conversations, text messages,
phone calls, social media posts, and personal emails.
Example: Chatting with a friend via text, having a casual conversation with a colleague in the
break room, or communicating with family members.
3. Structure and Organization: Formal vs. Informal
Formal Communication:
Structure and Organization: Formal communication typically follows established rules and
conventions. It has a clear structure, including proper salutations (e.g., "Dear Sir/Madam"),
formal closings (e.g., "Sincerely"), and a well-organized format. When written, formal
communication follows grammar rules strictly, with appropriate use of punctuation, full
sentences, and well-organized paragraphs.
Example: A formal business letter or a professional email outlining a project update, written in
paragraphs with bullet points or numbered lists for clarity.
Informal Communication:
Structure and Organization: Informal communication is generally more relaxed in its structure. It
can be spontaneous and may not follow strict grammar rules. The use of abbreviations, emojis,
or incomplete sentences is common. There’s less concern with organizing thoughts into a
structured format.
Example: A text message to a friend may be informal and might include shorthand like "BTW"
(by the way), "LOL" (laugh out loud), or even incomplete sentences.
4. Audience: Formal vs. Informal
Formal Communication:
Audience: The audience for formal communication is usually a person or group with whom you
have a professional or hierarchical relationship. This may include superiors, clients, colleagues
you don’t know well, or people in positions of authority. Formal communication aims to convey
professionalism and respect, which is crucial in maintaining business relationships and
upholding authority.
Example: Writing an email to your boss to request time off, addressing a government official, or
sending a letter to a potential client.
Informal Communication:
Audience: The audience for informal communication is typically someone with whom you share
a personal or friendly relationship. This can include friends, family members, and close
colleagues. There’s usually a level of familiarity or comfort between the individuals, which
allows for a more casual and less structured exchange.
Example: Messaging a colleague you are friends with, having a casual conversation with a family
member at home, or chatting with someone on social media.
5. Emotional Expression: Formal vs. Informal
Formal Communication:
Emotional Expression: Formal communication tends to be more restrained in terms of
emotional expression. The primary goal is to deliver information in a neutral, objective, and
professional manner. While emotions may be expressed, they are generally done in a controlled
and subdued way. There is usually little space for humor, sarcasm, or overly personal
expressions.
Example: "I understand the challenges you are facing in this project, and I appreciate your
continued efforts in meeting the deadline."
Informal Communication:
Emotional Expression: Informal communication allows for a greater range of emotional
expression. Individuals can express excitement, frustration, joy, or humor more freely. There is a
greater emphasis on personal connection, and the tone can vary based on the mood and
relationship between the individuals.
Example: "I’m so excited about this weekend! Let’s definitely hang out, I miss you!"
6. Examples of Formal and Informal Communication
Formal Writing Example:
Email to a Boss: "Dear Mr. Smith, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to follow up
on our previous discussion regarding the project deadline. I would appreciate any updates you
can provide. Thank you for your attention to this matter."
Informal Writing Example:
Text Message to a Friend: "Hey, are we still on for dinner tonight? Can’t wait to catch up!"
Formal Speech Example:
Business Presentation: "Good morning, everyone. Thank you for joining today’s meeting. I
would like to take this opportunity to review the quarterly performance and present the
proposed strategic direction for the upcoming months."
Informal Speech Example:
Casual Chat: "Hey, how’s everything going? I heard you went on a trip last weekend, how was
it?"
7. Situations Where Formal and Informal Communication Is Appropriate
Formal Communication Situations:
Writing an academic paper for university or research.
Presenting a business proposal to a potential investor.
Corresponding with clients or customers in a professional setting.
Attending job interviews or official meetings.
Sending formal invitations or RSVPs.
Informal Communication Situations:
Chatting with friends and family members.
Sending a casual message to a colleague you know well.
Posting on social media platforms in a personal context.
Having a casual conversation over coffee with a colleague or peer.
Conclusion:
In summary, formal and informal communication serve different purposes and are characterized
by distinct styles. Formal communication is structured, professional, and used in contexts where
respect, clarity, and authority are required, while informal communication is more relaxed,
conversational, and used in situations that call for personal expression and casual exchanges.
Understanding the appropriate use of each form of communication ensures effective and
respectful interactions, whether in the workplace, academia, or personal relationships .
