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Language Registers

Amber Burbrink

Created on July 7, 2024

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Transcript

Frozen

Language Registers

wedding ceremony
Miranda Rights
oath/swearing in

Formal

business meetings
interviews
legal hearing

There are five language registers. Each level has an appropriate use that is determined by differing situations. The appropriate language register depends upon the audience (who), topic (what), purpose (why), and location (where).

Consultative

doctor/patient
employer/employee
teacher/student

Casual

talking over lunch
park conversation
friends

Intimate

bedtime stories
family dinner
spouse

Frozen describes the language that is fixed and relatively static. Often, the language cannot be changed. This is the register of formality that does not require any feedback or response. Examples include Miranda rights being read to citizens, national anthems, officials taking oaths while being sworn into office, school creeds, and the reading of vows at wedding ceremonies.

Formal describes the language used during official and ceremonial settings that require a high level of respect and professionalism, such as in legal or academic settings. The diction and language used in these circumstances are rigid and have a set, agreed-upon, limited, and rigorous vocabulary. Examples: language used during a business meeting, interview, or legal hearing, such as a judge delivering a verdict in a courtroom.

Consultative describes the language used when expert advice and assistance is being sought, such as in a business or medical setting. One person is deemed to have more knowledge and expertise than the other. Usually the more knowledgeable person is the one sharing information. Examples include: a doctor discussing a diagnosis with a patient, an employer discussing expectations or projects with an employee, and a teacher providing instruction or guidance to a student.

Casual describes the language used between friends. It is often very relaxed and centered on exchanging information at a fast pace. Slang and vernacular speech are used in these instances. Example settings include at the local park or over lunch or coffee.

Intimate describes the language shared between people who share a close relationship or bond. It considers specific terms, slang, or expressions whose meaning is only understood by a subset of people. This language is reserved for spouses, partners, families, etc. Examples are a parent tucking in their child at bedtime and telling stories or a family dinner.