an informal setting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an informal setting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or environment that is relaxed and casual, often in contrast to a formal or professional setting. Example: "The meeting will take place in an informal setting, allowing everyone to feel more comfortable sharing their ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is a great opportunity to hear these amazing people in an informal setting," he said.

The New York Times

SGDs provide an informal setting to facilitate discussion and networking between our members and career mentors.

Yale University

Problem sets, literature review and research are discussed in an informal setting.

Princeton University

A time to get to know the other participants in an informal setting.

Harvard University

Facilitates access for students to professional women in both a structured or an informal setting.

Yale University

I have seen a lot of prime ministers and presidents, and in an informal setting anything goes.

The Guardian

In other words, coaches get to mingle in an informal setting with the N.F.L.'s decision-makers.

The New York Times - Sports

Although it may be a conscious exercise, a display of empathy is still best delivered in an informal setting.

Harvard Business Review

Typically, a speaker from industry or academia presents current work in an informal setting on the Stanford campus.

Stanford University

At the symposium you will stand by your poster and explain your work in an informal setting.

University of California, Berkeley

Media Networking Night is an exclusive opportunity for students and professionals to network in an informal setting.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an informal setting" to create a sense of approachability and openness. It helps to disarm the audience and encourage more candid interactions.

Common error

While "an informal setting" encourages relaxed interactions, it doesn't excuse unprofessional behavior. Maintain respect and appropriate conduct even in casual environments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an informal setting" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an adverbial to describe where an action or event takes place. It specifies the environment in which something occurs, providing context to the situation as shown in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

35%

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an informal setting" is a versatile and frequently used expression that describes a relaxed, non-ceremonial environment. Ludwig highlights its prevalence across diverse contexts like academia, news, and business, indicating its broad applicability. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, ensure the level of informality aligns with the context and audience. Common alternatives include "a relaxed atmosphere" and "a casual environment". Remember that even in "an informal setting", maintaining professionalism and respect is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a relaxed atmosphere

Focuses on the feeling or mood of the environment.

a casual environment

Highlights the lack of strict rules or formality.

a laid-back setting

Emphasizes a sense of ease and lack of stress.

an unstructured environment

Points out the absence of rigid organization or rules.

a relaxed venue

Specifically refers to a location that promotes relaxation.

a comfortable environment

Highlights the ease and pleasantness of the surroundings.

a friendly atmosphere

Focuses on the welcoming and approachable nature of the environment.

a convivial setting

Suggests a lively and sociable environment.

a non-official environment

Directly contrasts with a formal or official setting.

a familiar environment

Emphasizes the sense of being at ease and acquainted with the surroundings.

FAQs

How can I use "an informal setting" in a sentence?

You can use "an informal setting" to describe various situations. For example: "The team decided to meet in "an informal setting" to brainstorm new ideas", or "The professor held office hours in "an informal setting" to encourage students to ask questions".

What are some alternatives to saying "an informal setting"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a relaxed atmosphere", "a casual environment", or "a laid-back setting".

Is it appropriate to use "an informal setting" in formal writing?

While "an informal setting" is generally acceptable, consider your audience. In highly formal documents, a more precise and professional term may be preferable. Assess whether informality is appropriate for the context.

What is the difference between "an informal setting" and "a formal setting"?

"An informal setting" implies a relaxed, casual environment, while "a formal setting" suggests a structured, often professional or official environment. The choice depends on the desired tone and purpose of the interaction or event.