Formal/informal
Which is more formal: get, obtain, or grab?
obtain
What’s the difference in meaning between “say” and “tell”?
“Say” is used without a listener; “tell” is used when someone is told something (needs an object).
Make it more formal:
A lot of people think this is a bad idea.
Many people believe this is a poor decision.
Which is most formal: ask, inquire, or check?
inquire
Name 3 formal synonyms for “get”.
obtain, receive, acquire
Which sentence is more formal?
A) I’m gonna talk about the problem.
B) I will discuss the issue.
B) I will discuss the issue.
Use a formal synonym of “get” in this sentence:
Students should get permission from the teacher.
Students should obtain permission..
Change this informal phrase to formal:
I’m really sorry for the mix-up.
I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience.
Which is most formal: need, require, or want?
require
Name 3 formal synonyms for “say”.
state, declare, mention
What’s the difference between Yours sincerely and Yours faithfully?
Yours sincerely” is used when you know the recipient’s name (e.g., Dear Mr. Smith). “Yours faithfully” is used when you don’t (e.g., Dear Sir/Madam).
What’s the difference between “in spite of” and “although”? Use both in a sentence.
They mean the same, but “although” is followed by a clause; “in spite of” is followed by a noun/gerund.
Rewrite this sentence in a more formal way:
Sorry I didn’t get back to you sooner.”
I apologise for the delay in my response.
Which is most formal: start, commence, or kick off?
commence
Name 3 synonyms for “show”.
demonstrate, illustrate, reveal
Make it informal:
We need to determine how to resolve the issue as soon as possible.
We’ve gotta figure out how to fix it ASAP.
Transform this sentence into a passive structure:
People believe that the project will succeed.
It is believed that the project will succeed.
Rewrite it in a formal tone:
Hi! I saw you offer some courses I might like. Can I get more info? Thanks a lot!
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to request further information about the courses offered at your institution. I would be grateful if you could provide details regarding the application process.
Yours faithfully,
Alex Brown
Which is more formal: talk about, discuss, or chat?
discuss
Name 3 synonyms for “important”.
significant, crucial, essential
Make it suitable for an academic essay:
Lots of kids these days are into tech. They spend loads of time online, which isn’t always good. Parents should tell them to chill with the screens.
Many young people today are highly engaged with technology. Excessive screen time, however, can have negative effects. It is advisable for parents to encourage a healthier balance.
Rewrite with inversion:
I had never seen such a beautiful view.
Never had I seen such a beautiful view.
Make it formal:
Hi,
I’m super annoyed about the noise in the room next to me. It’s been going on for days. Can you do something about it? Thanks.
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the excessive noise coming from the adjacent room. This has been a recurring issue for the past several days and is affecting my ability to concentrate and rest.
I would appreciate it if you could look into this matter at your earliest convenience.
Yours faithfully,
Alex Brown
Which is more formal: stop, terminate, or cut out?
terminate
Name 3 synonyms for “problem”.
issue, challenge, complication