Speaking: Interactive Communication B2
Adapting Speech Style (Formal/Informal)
The Formality Spectrum 👔↔️👕
A truly advanced speaker knows that we don't speak the same way in all situations. Think of speech style as a spectrum. The language you use depends on the situation and your relationship with the person you are speaking to.
When? Job interviews, presentations, speaking to a high-ranking person.
Features: Full sentences, complex grammar, sophisticated vocabulary, no slang, use of titles (Mr./Ms./Dr.).
When? Everyday transactions, like buying something in a shop or asking for information.
Features: Polite, clear, and direct language. Not overly formal or casual.
When? With friends, family, and close colleagues.
Features: Use of contractions, colloquialisms (wanna, gonna), slang, and first names.
Scenario: The Same Request, Two Styles
Listen to Dara ask for a day off. Notice the dramatic difference in language when he speaks to his manager versus his close friend.
"Good morning, Ms. Chan. I hope you are well. I am writing to formally request a day of leave for this coming Friday. An important family matter has arisen which requires my attendance. Would it be possible to take this day off?"
"Hey Piseth, what's up? Listen, I gotta take this Friday off for a family thing. D'you think the boss will be cool with it? I've already finished my main stuff, so it should be fine, right?"
Cultural Context is Key 🇰🇭
💡 Understanding When to Be Formal
Knowing when to be formal is extremely important in many cultures, particularly in Cambodia where showing respect is a core societal value.
- Respect Age & Seniority: Always use a more formal style when speaking to someone older than you or in a higher professional position.
- "Saving Face": Formal language is often more indirect. This helps to prevent causing embarrassment or offense to the other person.
- When in Doubt, Be Formal: It is always safer to be too formal than too informal. If the other person responds casually, you can then adjust your own style to match theirs.
Practice Your Style-Switching 🎯
✍️ Practice Quiz: Formal or Informal?
1. "To whom it may concern, I am writing to inquire about the position advertised on your website."
A) Formal
B) Informal
→ Answer: A. This is a very standard and formal opening for a letter or email.
2. "No worries, man. I'll get it done by tonight."
A) Formal
B) Informal
→ Answer: B. The use of "No worries" and "man" makes this very casual and informal.
Key Vocabulary
- Adapt To change something to suit different conditions or uses.
- Speech Style The level of formality a person uses when speaking. Also called 'register'.
- Formal Used in serious, important, or official situations where respect is required.
- Informal Used in relaxed, friendly, and unofficial situations.
Your Mission: The "Style Switch" Challenge ⭐
Your mission is to practice adapting your speech for a specific situation. This will help you build the mental flexibility to switch styles automatically.
- Think of a simple request: For example, "asking someone to help you move a heavy table."
- Practice the request in two ways. Record yourself if possible.
- Version 1 (Informal): Imagine asking your younger brother for help. (e.g., "Hey, can you give me a hand with this table? It's super heavy.")
- Version 2 (Formal): Imagine asking a respected elder or a high-level manager for help. (e.g., "Excuse me, Sir. I sincerely apologize for the interruption. Would you mind possibly assisting me for a moment with this table?")
- Listen back to your recordings. Notice the differences in your vocabulary, grammar, and tone of voice.