Standard English
A form of speech that lays claim to a grammatical 'correctness' and clear pronunciation. This is sometimes called '±«Óătv English'. is a variety of English most easily understood by a wide The group of people a product or service is aimed at.. It isnât the only or âcorrectâ form of English - there are regional The language of a particular subset of English speakers - often those living in a particular place - having its own unique diction, vocabulary, spelling and even grammar. words and generational differences too.
However, Standard English is most suitable for formal occasions or where the audience is large or unknown. If everyone speaks in a standardised variety of English, we are more likely to understand each other. It is also the form of English rewarded in GCSE Speaking and Listening tasks.
Informal language
Standard English is formal - it does not include informal language. We use informal language in situations where Standard English is not necessary or might not be appropriate.
For example, we might use informal language like An informal word used in everyday speech. when we are with our friends or family. Your The particular way a person talks, including their dialect and personal favourite phrases and words. might include slang words and phrases that are particular to your age or social group. For example, think of the following words you might use to describe your sports shoes. Perhaps you would use one of the following:
- sneakers
- daps
- trainers
- runners
Most speakers would understand the word âtrainersâ, but the other words could be considered more informal or slang words.
When using informal language it is also common to use contractions - shortened versions of phrases such as âgonnaâ for âgoing toâ, âinnitâ for âisnât itâ and âI ainâtâ for âI am notâ. These contractions are not appropriate for formal speaking situations, but it would still be acceptable to use contractions like âIâmâ and âdonâtâ.
Here is an example of Catherine Tateâs comedy character Lauren Cooper using informal language to speak to her teacher. Notice how her language seems out of place.
Catherine Tateâs character Lauren Cooper uses colloquial language as she makes fun of her teacherâs accent
Dialect is the form of language used by a group that live in a particular area. If a speaker is using a dialect, they may use different words, spellings or even order their sentences in different ways. For example, in Newcastle the word 'gadgie' means man.
These non-standard English words and forms are easily understood by certain groups of people, but might be unfamiliar to other groups. Although dialect words can be acceptable in formal English, it's important to think about your audience and The reason for what you are saying. when deciding whether to use them or not.