Unformal vs. Informal — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on February 29, 2024
"Unformal" is a less common and often incorrect term for "informal," which describes a casual or relaxed style or manner, especially in speech or dress.
Difference Between Unformal and Informal
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Unformal" is not widely recognized in standard English usage, and it's often considered a mistake for "informal." "Informal" refers to a style or manner that is relaxed, casual, and not bound by formal rules, conventions, or etiquette. "Informal" is used to describe communication that is casual and conversational, suited for everyday use rather than professional or academic contexts.
The acceptance and correctness of "informal" in contrast to the questionable status of "unformal." While intended to convey a similar meaning, is rarely used and can be seen as incorrect by those familiar with standard language conventions.
When discussing dress codes, "informal" attire suggests a relaxed dress style that does not adhere to strict formalities, suitable for most social occasions. There's no equivalent usage of "unformal" in this context, reinforcing "informal" as the appropriate term.
"Informal" communication or environments encourage openness and ease, fostering a more approachable atmosphere. The term "unformal" would be out of place in such discussions, as it lacks the established meaning and acceptance of "informal."
The distinction also reflects in writing styles, where "informal" writing includes personal emails, texts, and social media posts, characterized by a personal tone and colloquial language. The concept of "unformal" writing does not exist, underscoring the predominance and specificity of "informal" for such purposes.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Often considered an incorrect term
Relaxed, not formal, casual in manner or dress
Usage in Language
Rarely used, not recognized in standard English
Widely accepted and used in English
Context
Misused in place of "informal"
Everyday conversation, casual dress, relaxed settings
Acceptance
Generally considered incorrect
Correct and appropriate for casual contexts
Examples of Use
-
Casual dress, conversational tone, informal meetings
Compare with Definitions
Unformal
Unformal was an Azerbaijani rock band from Baku, performing in Azeri and in English as well. Unformal was founded in 2000 by Rustam Mammadov and Novruz Ismayilov.
Informal
Not formal or ceremonious; casual
An informal gathering of friends.
A relaxed, informal manner.
Unformal
Not formal.
Informal
Not being in accord with prescribed regulations or forms; unofficial
An informal agreement.
Informal
Suited for everyday wear or use
Informal clothes.
Informal
Characterized by nontechnical vocabulary, simple sentence structure, and relatively few explicit transitions, as typified by spoken language
Informal discourse.
Informal
Not formal or ceremonious.
An informal get-together
Informal
Not in accord with the usual regulations.
An informal agreement
Informal
Suited for everyday use.
Informal clothes
Informal
(of language) Reflecting everyday, non-ceremonious usage.
Informal
(gardening) Not organized; not structured or planned.
Informal
Not in the regular, usual, or established form; not according to official, conventional, prescribed, or customary forms or rules; irregular; hence, without ceremony; as, an informal writing, proceeding, or visit.
Informal
Deranged in mind; out of one's senses.
These poor informal women.
Informal
Not formal;
Conservative people unaccustomed to informal dress
An informal free-and-easy manner
An informal gathering of friends
Informal
Not officially recognized or controlled;
An informal agreement
A loose organization of the local farmers
Informal
Used of spoken and written language
Informal
Having or fostering a warm or friendly atmosphere; especially through smallness and informality;
Had a cozy chat
A relaxed informal manner
An intimate cocktail lounge
The small room was cozy and intimate
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
