Which is Better: Formal or Informal Language?
In Adam Sternbergh’s essay, he discusses current slang used by rappers and how it is better than “business jargon”. Sternbergh actually approves of new slang words and describes them as being interesting and fun. He believes that it is okay to use these new words as long as they are innovative and creative.
However, there is a greater question at stake than simply is rappers’ slang better than businessmen’s slang. The greater question is which is better for the English language—informal or formal language?
People such as Sternbergh like informal language because it is creative and innovative. Others would say that language’s purpose is to express one’s self, and informal language is more expressive; therefore, informal should be acceptable. Some are also more partial towards informal language because of the freedom and lack of restrictions that come with it.
However, others would say that formal language is much better. Some would argue that there is just too much history and tradition in the English language to simply throw it out the window. I personally like learning the formal English language and using it. It is the “proper” way to speak. Furthermore, if informal language was acceptable, then the language would be even harder to learn.
If informal language is acceptable, then our society is basically saying that rules don’t matter and neither does all of the progress former generations have made before us. However, some could still argue that without change, there can be no progress.
What do you think?
9 comments:
Informal and formal language both have their places.
For example, formal language doesn't really fit into everyday conversation.
Similarly, informal language doesn't go well in formal papers or speeches.
Each has a place and should be kept in it's proper place.
Why shouldn't formal language be used everywhere? Would the United States not appear to be a more civilized and educated country if we cut out all of the slang terms and soley relied on the proper language of our heritage?
I agree with Jordan informal language and formal language has places they should or shouldn’t be used. When you are around your friends that could be a place to use slang but when you are trying to get a job that is the place to use formal language. Most people know when it is the proper time or place to use either language. Also slang is not trying to take over the “proper” English language it is just a funnier and more laid back way to express what you want to say. Using slang also does not mean you are uneducated or dumb because some of the smartest people in the world use slang they just know the proper places to use it.
I agree with you Matt. I like formal language because it is more educated. People respect others who can speak proper and do not use slang. This is why I like formal language.
The problem i think is that people dont know when to use formal and informal language. They mix the two and sometimes it just sounds dumbin. When you dont know the difference how do you know when to use it. How many times do you find yourself typing a paper and rereading it and find that some words you use are slang words. These words just come normal to you informal words are words that we use that just arent suitable for certain occasions.
I agree that there is a place for formal, and a place for informal language.
I think slang is fun in many situations, for instance in songs or talking to friends.
However when it's used all the time and everywhere, it bothers me and makes me appreciate formal language.
I do not believe that there is a place for informal language. I think that the vocabulary that was written out with its preset rules is changin far too much. One can be innovative and creative in speaking with the same language that has been used for centuries.
The fact of the matter is that it is not language that must be creative and must evoke vivid imagery but much rather what the individual is trying to say. Before rap and informal language creativity still existed in the English language.
I do agree that some parts of our language is changing far too much, but I do think that both formal and informal languages both have their places. Some situations where you are comfortable are more layed back and shouldn't be as formal if you choose so. On the other hand formal language should be used in certain cases such as talking to elders and such things.
The informal language is what makes language fun. If something stays the same for a long period of time then you become bored with it. For example, if in this class we were supposed to read the same story everyday and talk about the same elements of the story everyday, the you would become bored with the class and not show up. The informal language people make up is what makes our language 'fun'. Though i do think that formal language has its places in education or other buisness-like environments.
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