lesson 2 Flashcards
the level of formality with which one speaks
• is determined based on: who is in the audience, what the topic is, and the purpose of communication.
•It is important to use the appropriate language register so we do not offend others.
register
This style of communications RARELY or NEVER changes. It is “frozen” in time and content.
This type of language is learned and repeated by rote.
Examples:
the Preamble
Prayers
Laws
Biblical verses
Words to a song
Frozen or Static Register
•This language is used in formal settings and is one-way in nature.
This use of language usually follows a commonly accepted format.
It is usually impersonal and formal.
The speaker uses complete sentences, avoids slang and may use technical or academic vocabulary. It is likely that the speaker will use fewer contractions, but opt instead for complete words.
Examples
Speeches
Academic and scientific publishing
Formal Register
This is a standard form of communications.
•Users engage in a mutually accepted structure of communications.
It is formal and societal expectations accompany the users of
this speech.
It is professional discourse.
•This is the register used when consulting an expert such as a doctor. The language used is more precise. The speaker is likely to address the expert by a title such as “Doctor”, “Mr.” or “Mrs.”.
Consultative Register
•This is informal language used by peers and friends.
•Slang, vulgarities and colloquialisms are normal.
•This is “group” language. One must be member to engage in this register.
•This register is conversational in tone.
Casual Register
•This communications is private.
•It is reserved for close family members or intimate people.
• It is best avoided in public and professional situations.
Intimate Register
•One can usually transition from one language register to an adjacent one without encountering repercussions.
•However, skipping one or more levels is usually considered inappropriate and even offensive.
Rules on Language Use
