Interpersonal Communication- A Mindful Approach to Relationships, 2020a

The sentence structure is long and complicated.
The emphasis is on grammatical correctness.
Uses the passive voice.
Often communicated from a detached, third person
perspective.
Speakers/writers avoid the use of contractions.
Avoid the inclusion of emotionally laden ideas and
words.
Language should be objective.
Language should avoid the use of colloquialisms.
Only use an acronym after it has clearly been spelled
out once.
All sentences should be complete (clear subjects and
verbs).
The use of pronouns should be avoided.
Avoids artistic languages as much as possible.
Arguments are supported by facts and documented
research.
Language is gender neutral.
Avoids the imperative voice.
Table 4.1 Formal vs. Informal Language
The sentence structure is short, choppy, and improvised.
The emphasis is on easily understood messages using
everyday phrases.
Uses the active voice.
Perspective is less of a problem (1 st , 2 nd or 3 rd ).
Speakers/writers can actively include contractions.
It allows for the inclusion of emotions and empathy.
Language can be subjective.
It’s perfectly appropriate to use colloquialisms.
People use acronyms without always clearly spelling
out what it means.
Sentences may be incomplete (lacking a clear subject
and/or verb).
The use of personal pronouns is common.
Includes a range of artistic language choices (e.g., alliteration,
anaphora, hyperbole, onomatopoeia, etc.).
Arguments are supported by personal beliefs and
opinions.
Language includes gender references.
Uses the imperative voice.
Formal Language
When applying for a job, you will most likely use formal language in your cover letter and resume.
is official and academic language. You want to appear intelligent and capable, so
formal language helps you accomplish those goals. Formal language often occurs when we write. Formal
language uses full sentences and is grammatically correct. Formal language is more objective and more
complex. Most legal agreements are written in formal language.
is common, everyday language, which might include slang words. It is continuous
and casual. We use informal language when we talk to other people. It is more simple. Informal language
tends to use more contractions and abbreviations. If you look at your text messages, you will probably see
several examples of informal language.
Jargon
is the specialized or technical language of a specific group or profession that may not be
understood by outsiders. 23 If you are really into cars or computers, you probably know a lot about the
different parts and functions. Jargon is normally used in a specific context and may be understood outside
that context. Jargon consists of a specific vocabulary that uses words that only certain people understand.
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