Vocabulary & Style
C1 Lesson 2: Understanding Language Registers
Model: One Message, Three Registers 💬
The ability to "code-switch" is a key advanced skill. Let's look at how to communicate the same simple message ("I cannot attend a meeting tomorrow") in three different registers.
Formal (Email to a Director) 👔
Dear Mr. Chea,
I regret to inform you that I will be unable to attend tomorrow's scheduled meeting due to a prior commitment. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Neutral (Message to a Colleague) 🧑💻
Hi Vanna,
Just letting you know I can't make the 9 AM meeting tomorrow. Could you please send me the notes afterwards?
Informal (Text to a Friend) 👋
hey, can't make the 9am meeting tmrw, am swamped. can u cover for me? owe u one.
The Register Spectrum: Formal vs. Informal
The difference between registers involves vocabulary, grammar, and tone.
| Feature | Formal Register | Informal Register |
|---|---|---|
| Vocabulary | Precise, often Latinate verbs (e.g., investigate, commence). | Phrasal verbs and simpler words (e.g., look into, start). |
| Sentences | Longer, more complex structures; passive voice. | Shorter, simpler sentences; active voice. |
| Tone | Objective, often uses the third person. | Personal, uses 'I' and 'you' freely. |
| Contractions | Avoided (e.g., cannot, will not). | Frequent (e.g., can't, won't). |
💡 Pro Tip: Think About Your Goal
Before you speak or write, quickly ask yourself: What is my relationship with this person? and What do I want to achieve with this message? Your answers will help you choose the right register.
Practice Your Skills 🎯
Quiz: Identify the Register
- Which sentence is most suitable for a formal research paper?
a) We looked into the problem and found some stuff out.
b) The issue was investigated and several key conclusions were reached.
→ Answer: b. It uses formal vocabulary and the passive voice. - You are writing an email to a close friend about a trip to Battambang. Which closing is better?
a) I look forward to your response at your earliest convenience.
b) Hope to hear from you soon!
→ Answer: b. It is friendly and informal. - Which of the following is NOT typically a feature of formal writing?
a) Complex sentences
b) Contractions (e.g., can't, don't)
c) The passive voice
→ Answer: b. Contractions are a hallmark of informal language.
Your Vocabulary Mission ⭐
Writing Task: Practice Code-Switching
Imagine you receive this formal announcement. Rewrite its key message for two different audiences.
Formal Announcement: "It has been determined that the annual staff retreat, previously scheduled for July 5th, will be postponed until August 16th. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and will provide further details shortly."
- Rewrite it as a neutral message to your team on a messaging app.
(Example: Hi team, just a quick update: The annual staff retreat has been moved from July 5th to August 16th...) - Rewrite it as an informal text message to your best friend who also works there.
(Example: Hey! Did u see? They postponed the company trip to August...)
Key Vocabulary
- Register The level of formality in language, from casual to very formal.
- Code-switching The practice of changing between different registers in different social contexts.
- Latinate Derived from Latin. In English, these words often sound more formal (e.g., "commence" instead of "start").
- Objective Not influenced by personal feelings or opinions; considering only facts.