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Informality Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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informality

[ˌɪn.fɔːˈmæl.ə.ti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in conversation

The state or quality of being informal; lack of formality or ceremony. Informality is often appreciated in casual settings.

Synonyms

casualness, ease, relaxed atmosphere.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
informality

Use this term when referring to the absence of strict rules, protocols, or formality in a situation or setting.

  • The informality of the meeting allowed everyone to speak freely
casualness

This is best used to describe a general approach or behavior that is relaxed, unceremonious, or informal.

  • Her casualness at the job interview made her appear unprepared
relaxed atmosphere

This phrase is suitable for describing an environment that is calm, stress-free, and informal.

  • The café had a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day
ease

Apply this word when you want to convey a sense of comfort, simplicity, or lack of difficulty in a situation.

  • He completed the task with ease, showing his proficiency

Examples of usage

  • The informality of the gathering allowed everyone to relax and be themselves.
  • His informality in the office made him approachable to his colleagues.
Context #2 | Noun

in writing

An informal manner or style. Informality in writing can be effective for creating a more conversational tone.

Synonyms

casual style, colloquialism, conversational tone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
informality

Used to describe behavior, speech, or writing that does not follow formal conventions. It often implies a relaxed or unceremonious attitude.

  • The informality of the meeting allowed everyone to speak freely
  • His informality in dress made him approachable
casual style

Refers to a manner of speaking or writing that is relaxed and friendly, often used in everyday conversation or informal settings.

  • She adopted a casual style in her emails to colleagues
  • The casual style of the party made everyone feel comfortable
colloquialism

Involves the use of informal words or phrases that are generally understood within a particular region or group. This term often carries a sense of local or familiar speech.

  • The book is filled with colloquialisms, making it harder for non-native speakers to understand
  • 'Y'all' is a common colloquialism in the southern United States
conversational tone

Describes a way of speaking or writing that mimics natural, everyday conversation, often used to make the listener or reader feel at ease.

  • The podcast had a conversational tone, making it easy to listen to
  • Her speech had a conversational tone, engaging the entire audience

Examples of usage

  • The informality of her writing style made the book engaging and relatable.
  • The use of contractions adds informality to the text.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Context

  • In many modern societies, informality in communication, such as using first names, reflects friendliness and approachability.
  • Different cultures embrace informality to varying degrees; for example, many Western cultures are more relaxed than some Asian cultures that prefer formal interactions.

Psychology

  • Studies show that informal settings can enhance creativity, making people feel more comfortable to express their ideas.
  • Informality in communication can reduce stress and anxiety, fostering a more open interaction among individuals.

Business

  • Many companies adopt informal dress codes and work environments to promote a more innovative and less hierarchical workplace.
  • Informal meetings or brainstorming sessions can lead to more effective teamwork as barriers are lowered.

Literature

  • Authors often use informal language to create relatable characters and conversational dialogue that feels real.
  • The rise of informal writing styles has influenced modern literature, encouraging more personal and candid storytelling.

Origin of 'informality'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not', combined with 'formality', indicating the absence of strict rules.
  • Initially used in the 19th century, 'informality' became a way to describe relaxed social interactions.

The word 'informality' originated in the mid-19th century from the combination of 'informal' + '-ity'. The concept of informality has evolved over time as societal norms have changed, with a greater emphasis on casual interactions and relaxed settings. Informality is now valued in many aspects of life, from social gatherings to communication styles.

See also: disinformation, inform, informally, informant, informatics, information, informative, informed, informer, informers, informing, misinform, misinformation, misinformed, misinforming, uninformed.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,883, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.