Guide to Literary Terms Group

Question:

georgiacraven
georgiacraven
Student
High School - 11th Grade

How do you determine the use of formal or informal diction when reading a book?

 

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Posted by georgiacraven on Friday June 12, 2009 at 10:41 AM and tagged with formal informal diction, literature, writing styles.

Answers:


  1. drgingerbear Teacher
    Graduate School

    Formal and informal diction are two ways that authors can write. Formal diction is writing that is typically in 3rd person. The author does not use the words "I, we, our, my, us". Informal diction is similar to talking to a friend. It is typically written in 1st person.

    For example:

    Formal diction: The main character needs to make a decsion.

    Informal diction: I think the main character needs to make a decision.

    Additionally, formal diction does not typically use contractions, colloquialisms, or slang language. Also, words are not abbreviated in formal diction or writing (i.e. TV for television).

    Sources:
    http://www2.ivcc.edu/rambo/tip_formal_writing_voice.htm

    Rate answer:

    Posted by drgingerbear on Saturday June 13, 2009 at 11:39 AM