variations in language

2. We tell our
thoughts, like
our children, to
put on their hats
and coats before
they go out.

3. Register refers to:
the variations in language which reflect
the particular situation
the goals of the communication

4. The concept of register has been around
a long time.
introduced in the 50’s.
Martin Joos’ outlined it clearly in his
1961 book The Five Clocks.

5. Frozen
printed, unchanging language, formal,
almost scripted phrases that do not vary
Examples:
The Bible
The Lord’s Prayer
The Pledge of Allegiance
Laws
Preamble to the Constitution

6. Formal
One way communication, no interruptions
Used in impersonal, formal settings
Follows a commonly accepted format - complete
sentences, more complex syntax and specific
word usages
Often used to show respect
Examples:
Introductions between strangers
Rhetorical statements and questions
Speeches, pronouncements made by judges,
announcements
standard for work, school, public offices and business
settings

7. Consultative
Two way participation, professional setting
Background information is provided (prior
knowledge is not assumed).
Interruptions and feedback fillers allowed
(“uh-huh”, “I see”).
More complex syntax, longer phrases
Examples
Doctor:patient, lawyer:client, lawyer:judge,
Teacher:student,
Superior:subordinate
Colleagues, peers

8. Casual
Very informal language, ellipsis and slang are
common
No background information provided
“group” language – must be a member to use
Interruptions common
Context and non-verbal communication important
Examples:
friends and acquaintances
family
teammates
chats and blogs

9. Intimate
Non-public
Intonation as important as wording and
grammar
Often a private vocabulary
Examples:
husband, wife
boyfriend/girlfriend
twins (siblings)
pets, I would also add

10. Greetings in different registers
Frozen: I want to welcome you to the
Closer Connections Conference,
sponsored in part by Dakota TESL and
SDALL.
Formal: Good morning. I’ll let Dr. Jones
know you are here.
Consultative: Hello Mr. Smith. How are
you doing this morning?
Casual: Hey, Jack. What’s up?
Intimate: How’s my little puppy today?

11. Requests in different registers
Frozen: Please submit the information at
your earliest convenience.
Formal: Could you possibly type this up
for me by tomorrow?
Consultative: Can you finish this after
lunch?
Casual: Watch the door for me, OK?
Intimate: Hey, darlin’, pour me a cuppa
joe.

12. Partings in different registers
Frozen:
Farewell, and Godspeed.
Formal:
Goodbye. We look forward to seeing you again.
Consultative:
Goodbye. Have a good weekend.
Casual:
Bye now – take care.
Intimate:
later, darlin’.