FORMALITY LEVELS IN

COMMUNICATION
FIVE FORMALITY LEVELS/STYLES
(MARTIN JOOS)
 Frozen style

 It is a style used in a very formal setting such

as in rituals, church rites, speeches for state
ceremonies, and some other occasions.

 It makes use of stock expressions that have

not changed through the years.
 Formal style

 This is used in extended one-way

communication where the speaker plans ahead
and frames what he/she is to say before it is
delivered.

 There are two defining features of this style:

 modulated intonation

 cohesion and organization of the message

 Consultative style

 This is used in semi-formal communication

situations where a transaction of some sort
takes place.

 The transaction has two features:

 One speaker supplies background

information and it is not assumed that

he/she will be easily understood.
 The addressee participates continuously.
 Casual style

 This is used among friends and acquaintances

in informal situations.

 It has two defining features:

 ellipsis (omission of some words in

utterances)
 slang (non-standard words or expressions)
 Intimate style

 This is a completely private language that is

used within the family and with very close
friends.

 It excludes public information.