informal settings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "informal settings" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe environments or situations that are casual and not formal, often in social or relaxed contexts. Example: "In informal settings, people tend to communicate more freely and openly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

What would happen if we did?" The Daniels live half a mile from each other, in northern Los Angeles, and they often brainstorm in informal settings: driveway basketball court, back-yard swing set, couch, office.

The New Yorker

The study provides important information on infant breastfeeding and feeding practices in informal settings in sub-Saharan Africa, for which there is a dearth.

BMC Public Health

They gather in informal settings, such as homes or parks, and usually improvise upon his ideas.

The New Yorker

Mr McCain prefers such informal settings to standing behind a podium.

The Economist

She continued to play in more informal settings, and to teach master classes at the music school.

The New Yorker

Another 300 volunteers are advocates who educate others about health care issues in formal and informal settings.

The New York Times

Indigenous governance, patterns and practices of rule by which indigenous people govern themselves in formal and informal settings.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And yet, he said the prospect for more inclusive global cooperation, even in informal settings, was real.

The New York Times

And they reflect the increasing degree to which distinguished cooking pops up in the unconventional, informal settings that many food lovers often prefer.

The New York Times - Food

Mr. McClellan emphasized that Mr. Bush wanted to listen to average Americans in informal settings, and would be doing so as he traveled.

The New York Times

By contrast, Ms. Hughes said she was pleased in August with the small events in Texas where Mr. Bush appeared in informal settings relating to ordinary Americans.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions or meetings, use "informal settings" to convey a sense of ease and openness, suggesting a less structured environment.

Common error

Be mindful of the context; using "informal settings" to describe highly structured or regulated environments can be misleading. Ensure that your wording reflects the actual level of formality present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "informal settings" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as an adverbial to describe where an action takes place. As Ludwig AI indicates, its usage is grammatically correct and widespread.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "informal settings" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase. It serves to describe environments that are relaxed and unstructured, often contrasting with formal environments. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and it is commonly found across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and business domains. While its register is generally neutral, careful attention to context is advised to ensure appropriate usage. For more relaxed alternatives, consider using "casual environments" or "relaxed atmospheres".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

non-formal contexts

Directly contrasts with formal situations.

casual environments

Focuses on the relaxed nature of the surroundings.

relaxed venues

Highlights a comfortable location or place.

relaxed atmospheres

Emphasizes the ease and lack of strictness.

laid-back situations

Highlights the absence of pressure or formality.

unceremonious occasions

Underscores the lack of formal rituals or procedures.

unconventional locations

Stresses the departure from standard places or venues.

everyday circumstances

Highlights the ordinary and routine nature.

social gatherings

Focuses on the interpersonal aspect.

domestic environments

Refers specifically to home-based scenarios.

FAQs

How can I use "informal settings" in a sentence?

You can use "informal settings" to describe places or situations that are relaxed and not formal, such as "Brainstorming sessions often occur in "informal settings" like coffee shops or parks".

What's a good alternative to "informal settings"?

Depending on the context, you might consider using alternatives like "casual environments", "relaxed atmospheres", or "nonformal contexts".

Is it correct to use "informal settings" in academic writing?

Yes, "informal settings" is appropriate in academic writing when describing environments or situations that are not formal. However, ensure that its usage aligns with the overall tone and style of your academic work.

What is the difference between "informal settings" and "formal settings"?

"Informal settings" refer to environments that are relaxed and unstructured, while "formal settings" denote structured and often regulated environments, such as classrooms or boardrooms.