英语口语考试(1)

B: Yes, all languages have two general levels, or levels of usage: a formal level and informal level. English is in no exception. For example, we say “you must be kidding!” to show our surprise and disagreements in informal language. While in formal language, we may probably say “I’m sorry I couldn’t agree with you.”

A: So, let’s talk about the differences between them.

B: Okay, the first difference between formal language and informal language is the situation where we use them. Formal language is the kind of language you find in textbooks, reference books such as encyclopedias, and in business letters. For example, a letter to a university would be in a formal style. You would also use formal English in compositions and essays that you write in school.

A: I know, People usually use formal English when they give classroom lectures or speeches and at ceremonies such as graduations. We also tend to use formal language in conversations with persons we don’t know well or with people we have a formal relationship with, such as professors, bosses, doctors, friends of our parents’, strangers, etc.

B: Yes, you are right, and that Informal language is used in conversation with classmates, family, and friends, and when we write personal notes or letters to close friends, as well as in diaries and so on.

A: In addition, formal language tends to be more polite.

B: Oh, I have just remembered that another difference between formal and informal language is some of the vocabulary. There are some words and phrases that belong in formal language and others that are informal. For example, if I’m talking to my friend or family I might say “I’m just crazy about soccer!” But if you were talking to your supervisor or a friend of your parents’, I would probably say “I really enjoy soccer” or “I like soccer very much.”

A: There’s another example, when we are late for an appointment, we will say “sorry I’m late.” while if there’s someone important such as our teacher, we must say “I do hope you haven’t been waiting long.”

B: Yeah, you see, there are lots of differences between formal language and informal language. A: I can’t agree anymore! But for us as nonnative speakers what’s the best way to learn the difference?

B: In my opinion, observing the different ways English speakers speak or write in different situations may be the best way. Television boardcasting, your college professors in your class, will usually speak rather formally. However, your classmates, teammates, family members, and friends will generally speak in an informal fashion. The difference can be learned over time by observing and interacting with native speakers.