informally

USAGE SUMMARY

"informally" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate something is done or said without a formal process or ceremony. For example, "They agreed informally to meet for lunch next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They meet fellow Old Order members at church and while working, and much information is spread informally.

The Economist

Politicising the Hugos to such a degree certainly doesn't help the nominees themselves, because authors on his slate risk being informally blacklisted by the rest of the community.

The Guardian - Opinion

So he drew up a code of conduct: he wouldn't accept anyone who was under investigation or had been convicted of a felony violent crime, or a felony fraud crime, or any sexually violent crime, or anyone accused – even informally – of a sexual crime against children.

The Guardian - Tech

The issue of Britain's membership of the EU was not on the official agenda, but it was expected to be raised informally.

The Guardian

Of SNP voters, 41% said they would prefer no deal with either party, followed by 33% who wanted the SNP to support Labour informally.

The Guardian

Photograph: Pool/Getty Images Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 10.54am AEST01 54 A record 5.9% of Australians appear to have voted informally, up from 5.4% in the 2010 election.

The Guardian

In the Washington offices of the Record Industry Association of America RIAAA), execs were encouraged to play a game that was informally called Stump the Napster – in other words, try to find at least one of their new singles that wasn't being shared online.

The Guardian - Music

Informally we said: "Let's work together, let's see what happens".

The Guardian

Call records showed that hours after trying to murder Litvinenko Lugovoi called "female A", a woman whom he had "met informally" during one of numerous trips in 2006 to London.

The Guardian

But internally let's just get out of our seats and walk around the office and sort stuff out together informally by chatting and having meetings rather than sending long, long, long arduous emails".

The Guardian

His next challenge is to create a product that allows people who are informally employed, such as smallholder farmers and casual workers, to access credit.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "informally", ensure the context clearly contrasts with a formal or official setting. This provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "informally" when you mean to say "informally". "Informally" refers to a lack of formality, while "informally" means to impart knowledge. Make sure you are using the correct word based on the context.

How to use

Learn how to use "informally" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The word "informally" functions as an adverb. It modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed. As noted by Ludwig AI, the term is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "informally" functions as an adverb indicating a lack of formality in an action or communication. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is frequently found in news and media, suggesting a neutral register. When using "informally", ensure the context contrasts with a formal setting for clarity. Consider synonyms like "casually" or "without formality" for variety. Avoid confusing it with "informatively". Remember that, although versatile and correct, there may exist better alternatives if you are writing within a formal setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without formality

Highlights the absence of formal procedures or protocols.

in a casual manner

Emphasizes the relaxed and unstructured approach to the action.

in an unofficial capacity

Suggests that the action is not sanctioned or recognized by an official body.

off the record

Indicates that the information is not intended for public disclosure or attribution.

in a relaxed setting

Highlights the comfortable and unconstrained environment in which the action takes place.

behind the scenes

Suggests that the action is not visible or known to the general public.

personally

Focuses on individual interactions rather than official channels.

on an ad hoc basis

Emphasizes that the action is undertaken as needed, without a regular or planned schedule.

by word of mouth

Highlights the reliance on spoken communication rather than written documentation.

between ourselves

Indicates that the information is confidential and intended only for a select group of people.

FAQs

How can I use "informally" in a sentence?

Use "informally" to describe actions or communications that occur without formal rules or procedures. For example, "The team discussed the project "informally" before the official meeting".

What's the difference between "informally" and "unofficially"?

"Informally" suggests a lack of rigid structure or procedure, while "unofficially" implies a lack of authorization or sanction. They are similar but not always interchangeable.

Is it appropriate to use "informally" in academic writing?

Yes, "informally" is appropriate in academic writing when describing processes or discussions that occur outside of official channels or formal settings. Be mindful of maintaining a professional tone.

What are some synonyms for "informally" to add variety to my writing?

Consider using synonyms such as "casually", "without formality", or "in a relaxed manner" to add nuance and variety to your writing.