1. The context: This includes the audience, the purpose of the communication, and the setting.
* Audience: Who are you speaking or writing to? Are they peers, superiors, or strangers?
* Purpose: What is the goal of your communication? Are you trying to inform, persuade, entertain, or build a relationship?
* Setting: Where is this communication taking place? Is it a formal meeting, a casual conversation, or a written document?
2. The level of formality: This refers to the specific linguistic choices you make, including your vocabulary, grammar, and tone.
* Formal English uses more complex sentence structures, elevated vocabulary, and avoids slang or contractions. It is often used in academic writing, business communications, and formal speeches.
* Informal English is more relaxed and conversational. It uses simpler language, contractions, and slang. It is appropriate for personal conversations, emails to friends, and casual social media posts.
By considering these factors, you can choose the appropriate level of formality for any given situation.