1. FORMAL ENGLISH

2. General introduction to the features of written formal English

3. General features of formal Eng
Observed on all language levels, esp. on:
Lexis (formal, specific)
Structures (complex)
Style (non sensational)

4. Impersonal subjects when neutrality and objectivity are aimed at. E.g.
It is/appears obvious why/that
There is enough proof that/where

5. Concise expression
Preferred to vague expressions e.g.one-word verbs replace informal structures with ‘get’
Precision and objectivity, quoting

6. Vocabulary: frequency of
ESP
words with Greek or Latin origin. E.g. ‘to enquire’ /to ask; words with prefixes and suffixes,e.g. unmanifactured materials

7. Nominalization
ouns and nominal structures are used more frequently than verbs. E.e. assignement of funds; Instead of ‘It is difficult to change ‘to make this alteration would be demanding’

8. Formal linking words
Formal linking words (shades of meaning, gradation)
discourse markers to achieve explicitness
Synonyms, antonyms

9. Passive structures
Used whenever appropriate. E.g. combination of passive voice and impersonal structurese.g. It has been proven/ acknowledged that’, There have been indications

10. Tentative language
The usage of words that leave some possibility for other estimations or standpoints and avoid direct criticism. E.g. to appear/seem, to tend, modal verbs, possibly, possibility, expectations

11. Participle/infinitive structures
To express various relations (often cause, consequence and time). E.g. Having developed a new method, she was invited to speak .

12. Responsibility
Demands the acknowledgement of all sources used in writing
To follow accepted citation standards

13. Academic English Based on formal English
specific general language characteristics
particular linguistic features related to individual disciplines (ESP)