I think it depends on how close to the edge one likes to walk.  I shift to informal register sometimes in a formal setting, as I’m sure most of us do, if I think it will more effectively support my point or suit the discourse context.  I’d have to admit, though, that I don’t usually think about it when I do it.

 

Herb

 

 

In a message dated 8/16/06 9:49:55 AM, [log in to unmask] writes:

it is the case that as the language changes it tends to change in informal registers before the change creeps into more formal usage.  Teaching register as a part of teaching grammar is a good way to acquaint students with notions of appropriateness and of change in progress.

Good point, Herb.  But I guess what I'm puzzled by is how to know when a change has been accepted for writing in a fair(ly) formal register . . . like the New York Times.




Peter Adams

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