informal speech

USAGE SUMMARY

"informal speech" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing language styles, communication contexts, or comparing formal and informal language. Example: "In informal speech, people often use slang and contractions." Alternative expressions include "casual language" and "colloquial speech."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Almond specializes in simple, tuneful melodies that draw on the rhythms of informal speech.

The New Yorker

Unlike many laws of grammar or syntax, this one is virtually inviolable, even in informal speech.

The Guardian - Opinion

Though "whom" is pompous in short questions and relative clauses, it is a natural choice in certain other circumstances, even in informal speech and writing.

The Guardian - Books

Not surprisingly, the result is a written language that records informal speech rather than writing that can stand as an edited genre of its own.

The New York Times

For example, all forms of discrimination against "untouchables" (now usually referred to in administrative language as "scheduled castes" and in informal speech as "Dalits") are forbidden, although it has been impossible to enforce the law in every case.

Encyclopedia Britannica

No self-respecting prescriptivist would sanction these, but from analyses of informal speech recorded in many parts of the United States, descriptive linguists have identified several restrictions on this deletion.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Away from the set-piece events there are fringe meetings - often in hotels near the conference centre - with more informal speeches and question and answer sessions.

BBC

In informal speeches, repeating the main points won't be necessary.

WikiHow

Use informal language.

WikiHow

Palin, who studied journalism in college and worked for a time as a sportscaster, has an informal manner of speech, simultaneously chatty and urgent, and she reinforces her words with winks and nods and wrinklings of her nose that seem meant to telegraph intimacy and ease.

The New Yorker

They shared a general disregard for nattiness, an informal mode of speech, an obsession with detail, an irrepressible absent-mindedness.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "informal speech" when comparing it to formal language, in sociolinguistic analysis, or when analyzing writing versus spoken language. This helps clarify the context and intention behind communication styles.

Common error

Avoid using "informal speech" as a catch-all for incorrect grammar. Informal speech can be grammatically sound even if it uses slang or contractions. Differentiate between informality and grammatical errors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "informal speech" primarily functions as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig, it describes a style of communication characterized by its relaxed and conversational nature, contrasting with more formal or structured modes of expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

28%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

14%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "informal speech" is a common and acceptable phrase used to describe a relaxed, conversational style of communication. As noted by Ludwig, its grammatical status is correct, and it appears frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources. When using this term, consider the context, as overuse or misapplication in formal settings could be perceived as unprofessional. Alternative phrases such as "casual language" or "colloquial language" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Ludwig's analysis indicates a generally informal register, making it suitable for everyday conversations and creative writing, but less so for academic or formal business contexts without specific analytical intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

casual language

Focuses on the laid-back nature of the language used.

colloquial language

Highlights the everyday or common nature of the language.

everyday language

Emphasizes the language used in ordinary situations.

vernacular speech

Refers to the dialect or language spoken by ordinary people in a particular region.

non-formal speech

Directly contrasts formal communication styles.

conversational language

Emphasizes the interactive aspect of speech.

slang usage

Refers specifically to the use of slang terms.

common parlance

Refers to commonly used expressions and vocabulary.

street talk

Implies the language used in urban or informal settings.

unceremonious language

Emphasizes lack of formality or politeness.

FAQs

How can "informal speech" be used in academic writing?

In academic writing, "informal speech" is often analyzed in sociolinguistics to study language variation, or in literature to characterize characters through their dialogue. Remember to always use a formal tone in your writing, unless you are directly quoting or analyzing "informal speech".

What are some examples of "informal speech"?

Examples of "informal speech" include using slang, contractions, colloquialisms, and a relaxed tone. These features are typically absent in formal communication.

What's the difference between "informal speech" and "casual language"?

While both terms denote a relaxed style of communication, "informal speech" specifically refers to spoken language, whereas "casual language" can encompass both spoken and written forms. The terms can often be used interchangeably.

When is it appropriate to use "informal speech"?

"Informal speech" is appropriate in casual conversations with friends and family, in relaxed social settings, and sometimes in creative writing where a conversational tone is desired. However, avoid it in professional or academic contexts unless you're analyzing its use.