Speech Styles

The context dictates and affects the way people communicate, which results
in various speech styles. According to Joos (1968), there are five speech
styles. These are:

(1.) Intimate, (2.) casual, (3.) consultative, (4.) formal, and (5.) frozen. Each
style dictates what appropriate language or vocabulary should be used or
observed.

1. Intimate – This style is private, which occurs between or among close family
members or intimate individuals. The language used in this style may not be
shared in public.
Example:
▪ Two people in a relationship calling each other “honey”

2. Casual – This style is common among peers and friends. Jargon, slang, street
language, gay language or vulgar words are used.
Example:
▪ Students who are having a conversation during break time in the
canteen.

3. Consultative – This style is the standard one. Professional or mutually

acceptable language is a must in this style.
Example:
▪ Communication between teachers and students, employers and
employees, doctor and patient, judge and lawyer, or President and
his/her constituents.

4. Formal – This style is used in formal settings. Unlike the consultative style
this is one-way.
Example:
▪ A sermon by priest and ministers, State of the Nation Address of the
President, formal speeches, or pronouncements by judges.

5. Frozen – This style is “frozen” in time and remains unchanged. It mostly

occurs in ceremonies.
Examples:
▪ The Preamble to the Constitution
▪ Lord’s Prayer
▪ Allegiance to country or flag
▪ I have pronounced you husband and wife.