Here's why:
* Formal essays require a professional tone: Colloquialisms are informal, casual expressions that are often used in everyday conversation. They can make your writing sound unprofessional and detract from the seriousness of your arguments.
* Clarity and precision are crucial: Formal essays aim for clarity and precision in their language. Colloquialisms can be ambiguous or unclear, making it difficult for the reader to understand your meaning.
* Academic standards: Formal essays are written according to academic standards that emphasize formal language. Using colloquialisms can be seen as a violation of these standards and may negatively impact your grade.
However, there are some exceptions:
* Contextual use: If you are quoting someone who uses colloquial language, you may need to include it in your essay for accuracy and analysis.
* Analysis of language: If your essay focuses on the use of colloquial language in a specific context, you may use it as an example for your analysis.
In general, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid using colloquial language in a formal essay unless absolutely necessary. Stick to formal, standard English for a professional and impactful piece of writing.