Speaking: Vocabulary C1
Varying Lexis for Different Registers & Audiences
Listen to the scenario examples here.
Why "Code-Switching" is a C1 Skill
At an advanced level, fluency isn't just about knowing many words; it's about knowing *which* word to use at the *right time*. This is called code-switching or varying your register. Using the wrong lexis can make you sound rude, unprofessional, or even confusing.
Look at one situation—a project delay—explained to three different audiences:
Audience 1: Your Best Friend
(Register: Informal / Casual)"Mate, we're totally behind. The server crashed again and I've got no clue what to do. It's a complete mess."
Audience 2: Your Manager
(Register: Consultative / Professional)"Hi, just a quick update: we've run into an issue with the server. I'm looking into the problem now and will let you know when I have an estimate for the fix."
Audience 3: The Client
(Register: Formal / Official)"Good morning. I'm writing to inform you that the project has encountered a minor setback. We are currently investigating the root cause and will provide a revised timeline shortly."
Your Lexical Toolkit 🛠️
Your vocabulary choices are the primary tool for switching registers.
Use for academic or official communication. It is objective and precise.
- Prefers Latinate words:
commence(start),rectify(fix),ascertain(find out). - Avoids phrasal verbs: "We must investigate the issue."
- Often uses passive voice: "A decision has been made..."
This is your standard, polite "default" register for work and public life.
- Uses common, clear verbs:
start,fix,find out. - Uses common phrasal verbs: "We need to look into the issue."
- Is clear and direct: "We've made a decision."
Use with people you know well. Builds rapport and friendliness.
- Uses many phrasal verbs: "We need to figure out the issue."
- Uses idioms & slang: "It's a mess.", "I've got no clue."
- Uses reductions:
gonna,wanna,dunno.
Pronunciation Tip
🗣️ Pacing, Tone, and Reductions
Register isn't just about *what* you say, but *how* you say it.
- Formal Tone: Speak clearly, at a moderate pace. Pronounce each word fully. Your tone should be neutral and respectful.
- Informal Tone: Speak faster. Use contractions (
I'm,we've) and reductions (gonna,wanna). Your pitch range is wider to show more emotion.
Listen:
Formal: "I am going to investigate the problem."
Informal: "I'm gonna look into the problem."
Practice Your Lexis 🎯
Practice Quiz: Level-Up Your Vocabulary
Match the simple, informal word on the left to its more formal (Consultative or Formal) equivalent on the right. Click "Check Answers" when done.
Key Vocabulary (Click 🔊)
- Lexis / Lexical The specific vocabulary of a language or a subject.
- Register The style of language (vocabulary, tone, grammar) used in a particular social situation.
- Code-switching The practice of alternating between two or more languages or registers in conversation.
- Setback A problem that delays or prevents progress; a difficulty.
- Investigate (Formal) To look into something; to examine facts to find the truth.
- To Rectify (Formal) To correct something or make it right; to fix.
- To Commence (Formal) To begin or to start.
- To Ascertain (Formal) To find out for certain; to make sure of.
Your Mission: The "Three Emails" Challenge ⭐
Your mission is to put code-switching into practice. Choose one of the situations below and write three very short messages (1-2 sentences each) to three different audiences.
Choose one situation:
- You need to cancel a meeting.
- You finished a big project.
- You disagree with an idea.
Write to these three audiences:
- Your best friend (Informal)
- Your manager (Consultative)
- An important client (Formal)
Focus on changing your vocabulary (lexis) and tone for each one. Practice reading them aloud to hear the difference.