Examples of Germanic versus Latin/French words: Germanic Latin/French hard-working diligent a tool an implement need require a hearty welcome a cordial reception The greater the number of words of Latin/French origin, the heavier the text: The inclement climatic conditions obliged the President to return earlier than scheduled. (formal, stilted) The president was obliged to return earlier than planned due to poor weather conditions. (formal, clear) The president had to go back sooner than he’d planned because the weather was so bad. (informal) 6) Use of personal pronouns: Formal texts, especially ones from the authorities, will not normally use the first person pronoun (“I”). For example, if a police officer would like you to come down to his office for a little chat about your last Friday night in the town, he would probably not write the rather direct, and personal: I would like you to come down to the police station so I can ask you a few questions. He would probably write something more like this, in a more indirect tone (using the passive voice): You are asked to come into the police station at your convenience so this matter can be pursued in more detail.
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A MEETING OF WORLDS
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1 Here are five sentences from a letter of application. Explain what makes them informal. Rewrite them so they are more formal and write an explanation on what you have done. a I’m writing to you coz you guys had an ad in the paper about jobs at your plant. b I’m done with school. c I can come in and see you if you want. d I ain’t got much experience but I can learn real quick. e You got any questions just call. 2 Make the following sentence clearer by making the verbs active rather than passive: We have been asked by your examiners to obtain your written confirmation that all their required tasks have been completed by yourself. 3 Simplify the following sentences, looking especially at the underlined passages: I am in receipt of information from the citizens’ advice bureau, which I believe is acting on your behalf, with regard to matters appertaining to your benefit claim. Will you please furnish the bureau with particulars of your savings. 4+ Which words could be changed to make the sentences below clearer? a The ready availability of computer-based tutorials associated with applications software has become prevalent since the development of Microsoft Windows. b We are now in a position to make you an offer of employment on a part-time basis.