The way you speak to a young child
is probably not the same way you speak to a close friend—or, for that matter,
the way you would speak to a judge in a courtroom. Those different ways of
speaking to different people in different contexts are what we call register.
In linguistics,
the register is defined as the way a speaker uses language differently in
different circumstances. Think about the words you choose, your tone of voice,
even your body language. You probably behave very differently chatting with a
friend than you would at a formal dinner party or during a job interview. These
variations in formality, also called stylistic variation, are known as
registers in linguistics. They are determined by such factors as social
occasion, context, purpose,
and audience.
Registers are marked by a variety of specialized vocabulary and
turns of phrases, colloquialisms and the use of jargon, and a
difference in intonation and pace; in "The Study of Language," linguist George
Yule describes the function of jargon as helping " to create and maintain
connections among those who see themselves as 'insiders' in some way and to
exclude 'outsiders'."
Registers are used in all forms of communication, including
written, spoken, and signed. Depending on grammar, syntax, and tone, the
register may be extremely rigid or very intimate. You don't even need to use an
actual word to communicate effectively. A huff of exasperation during a debate
or a grin while signing "hello" speaks volumes.
Types of Linguistic Register
Some linguists say there are just two types of register: formal
and informal. This isn't incorrect, but it is an oversimplification. Instead, most
who study language say there are five distinct registers.
1. Frozen: This form is sometimes called the static register because it
refers to historic language or communication that is intended to remain
unchanged, like a constitution or prayer. Examples: The Bible, the United
States Constitution, the Bhagavad Gita, "Romeo and Juliet"
2. Formal: Less rigid but still constrained, the formal register is used
in professional, academic, or legal settings where communication is expected to
be respectful, uninterrupted, and restrained. Slang is never used, and
contractions are rare. Examples: a TED talk, a business presentation, the
Encyclopaedia Brittanica, "Gray's Anatomy," by Henry Gray.
3. Consultative: People use this register often in
conversation when they're speaking with someone who has specialized knowledge
or who is offering advice. Tone is often respectful (use of courtesy titles)
but may be more casual if the relationship is longstanding or friendly (a
family doctor). Slang is sometimes used, people may pause or interrupt one
another. Examples: the local TV news broadcast, an annual physical, a service
provider like a plumber.
4. Casual: This is the register people use when they're with friends,
close acquaintances and coworkers, and family. It's probably the one you think
of when you consider how you talk with other people, often in a group setting.
Use of slang, contractions, and vernacular grammar is all common, and people
may also use expletives or off-color language in some settings. Examples: a
birthday party, a backyard BBQ.
5. Intimate: Linguists say this register is reserved for special occasions,
usually between only two people and often in private. Intimate language may be
something as simple as an inside joke between two college friends or a word
whispered in a lover's ear.
Additional Resources and Tips
Knowing which register to use can be challenging for English
students. Unlike Spanish and other languages, there is no special form of a
pronoun expressly for use in formal situations. Culture adds another layer of
complication, especially if you're not familiar with how people are expected to
behave in certain situations.
Teachers say there are two things you can do to improve your
skills. Look for contextual clues such
as vocabulary, use of examples, and illustrations. Listen for tone of voice. Is the
speaker whispering or yelling? Are they using courtesy titles or addressing
people by name? Look at how they're standing and consider the words they
choose.
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