speak informally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "speak informally" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a casual or relaxed manner of communication, often in contrast to formal speech. Example: "In this meeting, I encourage everyone to speak informally and share their ideas freely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

We, so to speak, informally shared out the work that was available.

Independent

He is scheduled to visit a West Bank youth center with Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Salam Fayyad, where he may speak informally to some young Palestinians.

The Washington Post

A 10-minute break between the first and second hour of class time provides an opportunity to students to speak informally with the guest practitioners, who, this semester, include the following.

Columbia University

Hillary Clinton campaign spokesman Glen Caplin declined comment Thursday on whether it was appropriate for the former president to speak informally with Lynch while the FBI matter is unresolved.

The Washington Post

He also tried his hand at radio, presenting the BBC news programme North at Six. Told to speak informally, as if to friends in a pub, he was accused by listeners in Cheshire of not being able to speak the Queen's English, and lost the job.

The Guardian - Film

But the president has no other bilateral meetings scheduled, though he could speak informally with Russian President Vladi­mir Putin during a luncheon, aides said, mostly aimed at setting up a formal meeting at the Group of 20 summit in Buenos Aires this month.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Catalan is spoken informally in southern France, but the region is dominated officially by French.

The Economist

Art and the Feminist Revolution" opened in Los Angeles, the artists Suzanne Lacy and Leslie Labowitz spoke informally at a gallery.

The New York Times - Arts

Defence sources, speaking informally, have said that the submarine performed as it should.

The Guardian

Since Mr. Vedrine had spoken informally at the French Embassy residence here, a transcript was not available, a French official said.

The New York Times

After a luncheon given at Gracie Mansion by the Mayor & Mrs. Lindsay, the writer accompanied the Mayor to Columbia University where he spoke informally to the students.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "speak informally" to create a relaxed and approachable environment in communication, especially when aiming to encourage open dialogue and idea-sharing.

Common error

Avoid using "speak informally" in highly formal contexts like legal proceedings or official reports. Opt for more professional language to maintain the appropriate tone and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "speak informally" functions as a verb phrase combined with an adverb, describing the manner in which someone communicates. It specifies the act of speaking in a casual, relaxed, and unceremonious way. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which validates its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "speak informally" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe communicating in a relaxed and casual manner. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. While not very common, it's used across various contexts, including news and media and academic settings, to encourage open dialogue. When aiming for a relaxed and approachable environment in communication, it is very appropriate, remembering to avoid overusing "speak informally" in very formal settings, as pointed out in the usage guidance. Alternatives such as "talk casually" or "converse informally" can provide similar meaning with slight nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

talk casually

Focuses on the relaxed nature of the conversation.

converse informally

Highlights the interactive aspect of the conversation.

chat informally

Emphasizes a light and friendly tone.

have an informal chat

A more specific alternative, denoting a chat.

communicate casually

Broader term encompassing various forms of casual communication.

address casually

Focuses on the way someone is spoken to.

have a relaxed conversation

Highlights the relaxed atmosphere of the conversation.

have a friendly discussion

Emphasizes a friendly tone during communication.

engage in a casual dialogue

Focuses on the nature of engagement and conversation.

shoot the breeze

An idiomatic expression for casual conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "speak informally" in a sentence?

You can say, "During the team meeting, I encouraged everyone to "speak informally" and share their thoughts."

What does it mean to "speak informally"?

To "speak informally" means to communicate in a relaxed, casual manner, without adhering to strict rules of grammar or etiquette. It's often used in friendly or relaxed settings.

Which is correct: "speaking informally" or "speak informally"?

Both are correct, but they have different functions. "Speak informally" is an infinitive form, often used after verbs like 'encourage' or 'ask'. "Speaking informally" is a gerund or present participle, used as a noun or part of a continuous verb tense.

What can I say instead of "speak informally"?

You can use alternatives like "talk casually", "chat informally", or "converse informally" depending on the context.