* Academic writing: Essays, research papers, dissertations, theses, scholarly articles, and other academic work.
* Professional communication: Business letters, reports, proposals, emails to superiors, and official documents.
* Legal writing: Contracts, court filings, legal briefs, and other legal documents.
* Formal speeches and presentations: Speeches given at conferences, graduations, or other formal occasions.
* Job applications and cover letters: To demonstrate professionalism and a strong grasp of the language.
* Formal invitations and announcements: For events like weddings, funerals, or important social gatherings.
* Letters to government officials: When writing to express concerns, request information, or advocate for a specific issue.
Key characteristics of formal English include:
* Complex sentence structures: Longer and more intricate sentences.
* Precise vocabulary: Choosing words carefully for clarity and impact.
* Objective tone: Avoids personal opinions or emotional language.
* Standard grammar and punctuation: Strict adherence to rules and conventions.
* Third-person perspective: Often uses the "he," "she," or "it" pronouns.
* Formal greeting and closing: Appropriate salutations and closings, like "Dear Sir or Madam" and "Sincerely."
Remember, the formality level can vary depending on the context and audience. While these situations call for formal English, there might be exceptions within each category. It's always best to consider your audience and the specific situation before making a decision.