formal speech

The Art of Eloquence: Understanding Formal Speech Style Examples

Effective communication is the cornerstone of success in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional careers. When it comes to conveying messages, there are different speech styles that serve distinct purposes. One of the most important and widely used speech styles is formal speech. In this article, we will delve into the world of formal speech, exploring its definition, characteristics, and examples, as well as the importance of mastering this style in various contexts.

Table of Contents

What Is Formal Speech?

Formal speech is a type of speech style that is characterized by a formal tone, language, and structure. It is typically used in professional, academic, and official settings, such as business meetings, conferences, presentations, and formal events. The primary purpose of formal speech is to convey credibility, respect, and professionalism, while maintaining clarity and precision in communication.

| Characteristics | Description | | — | — | | Formal tone | serious, respectful, and professional | | Language | precise, clear, and free of slang | | Structure | organized, logical, and easy to follow | | Vocabulary | formal, sophisticated, and technical | | Grammar | correct, concise, and free of errors | | Purpose | to inform, persuade, or entertain |

Examples Of Formal Speech Style

To better understand formal speech, let’s examine some examples from various contexts:

Business Meeting

“Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for attending today’s meeting. As we discussed in our previous meeting, our company is facing a significant challenge in the current market. I would like to present a proposal to address this issue and outline a potential solution. Our research indicates that… (pauses for emphasis) …by implementing this strategy, we can increase our revenue by 15% within the next quarter.”

In this example, the speaker uses a formal tone, language, and structure to convey a professional image and establish credibility with the audience.

Academic Presentation

“Good afternoon, esteemed colleagues. Today, I am presenting a research paper on the impact of climate change on global food production. As we can see from the data (refers to a graph), the rise in temperature has resulted in a significant decrease in crop yields. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that… (pauses for emphasis) …if we do not take immediate action, the consequences will be catastrophic.”

In this example, the speaker uses formal language, vocabulary, and grammar to convey a professional image and establish credibility in the academic community.

Wedding Speech

“Ladies and gentlemen, family, and friends, welcome. Today, we gather to celebrate a very special occasion – the union of two wonderful people. As the best man, I have had the privilege of knowing the groom for many years. I can confidently say that… (pauses for emphasis) …he is an exceptional individual, and I am honored to stand by his side on this momentous day.”

In this example, the speaker uses a formal tone, language, and structure to convey respect, sincerity, and professionalism, making the speech memorable and impactful.

Importance Of Mastering Formal Speech Style

Mastering formal speech style is essential in various aspects of life, including:

Professional Career

In the workplace, formal speech is crucial for effective communication, building trust, and establishing credibility with colleagues, clients, and customers. A well-crafted formal speech can make a significant difference in career advancement, as it demonstrates professionalism, authority, and expertise.

Academic Success

In academic settings, formal speech is essential for presenting research papers, delivering lectures, and participating in debates. Professors and students who can articulate their ideas clearly and persuasively are more likely to achieve academic success and make a lasting impact in their field.

Personal Relationships

In personal relationships, formal speech can be used to show respect, empathy, and gratitude. For instance, a well-crafted wedding speech or a heartfelt eulogy can create a lasting impression and strengthen bonds between family and friends.

Tips For Improving Formal Speech Style

To improve your formal speech style, follow these tips:

Practice, Practice, Practice

Practice makes perfect, especially when it comes to formal speech. Rehearse your speech several times, record yourself, and identify areas for improvement.

Use Clear And Concise Language

Avoid using jargon, slang, and ambiguous language. Instead, opt for clear, concise, and formal vocabulary that conveys your message effectively.

Organize Your Thoughts

Structure your speech in a logical and organized manner. Use transitions, signposting, and rhetorical devices to engage your audience and maintain their attention.

Make Eye Contact

Maintain eye contact with your audience to establish trust, credibility, and confidence. Avoid reading from a script or a screen, and instead, focus on your audience.

Use Visual Aids

Use visual aids such as graphs, charts, and images to support your message and engage your audience. However, avoid overusing them, as they can distract from your message.

In conclusion, formal speech style is an essential communication tool that can help individuals achieve their goals in various aspects of life. By understanding the characteristics, examples, and importance of formal speech, as well as tips for improvement, you can master this style and become a more effective and confident communicator. Remember, formal speech is not just about using big words or a formal tone; it’s about conveying credibility, respect, and professionalism in every message you convey.

What Is Formal Speech Style?

Formal speech style refers to a type of communication that is characterized by a formal tone, vocabulary, and structure. It is often used in professional, academic, and official settings, such as business meetings, conferences, and formal presentations. Formal speech style is typically marked by the use of complete sentences, proper grammar, and a neutral or objective tone. It is also often accompanied by nonverbal cues such as a serious facial expression, erect posture, and a calm tone of voice.

Formal speech style is important because it helps to convey a sense of respect, professionalism, and authority. It is essential in situations where credibility and trust need to be established, such as in job interviews, sales pitches, or public speeches. Moreover, formal speech style helps to avoid misunderstandings and miscommunications, as it is clear and concise, allowing the audience to focus on the message being conveyed rather than the way it is being presented.

What Are Some Examples Of Formal Speech Style?

Formal speech style can be observed in various contexts, such as business presentations, academic lectures, and government addresses. For instance, a CEO delivering a keynote speech at a conference, a professor lecturing on a complex topic, or a president delivering a State of the Union address are all examples of formal speech style. Additionally, formal speech style can be seen in written communication, such as company reports, research papers, and official letters.

These examples illustrate the importance of formal speech style in conveying complex information, ideas, and opinions in a clear and concise manner. They also highlight the significance of nonverbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice, in reinforcing the formal tone of the speech. By analyzing these examples, one can gain a better understanding of the characteristics and importance of formal speech style.

How Does Formal Speech Style Differ From Informal Speech Style?

Formal speech style differs from informal speech style in several ways. Firstly, formal speech style is characterized by a more formal tone, vocabulary, and structure, whereas informal speech style is marked by a casual tone, colloquial language, and a more relaxed structure. Secondly, formal speech style is often used in professional or official settings, whereas informal speech style is typically used in social or personal settings. Finally, formal speech style is often accompanied by nonverbal cues such as a serious facial expression and erect posture, whereas informal speech style may involve more relaxed body language.

The distinction between formal and informal speech style is essential because it helps individuals to adapt their communication style to different contexts and audiences. For instance, using formal speech style in a job interview can help to create a positive impression, while using informal speech style in a social conversation can help to build rapport with others. Understanding the differences between formal and informal speech style can also help individuals to avoid miscommunications and misunderstandings.

What Are Some Characteristics Of Formal Speech Style?

Formal speech style is characterized by several key features, including a formal tone, complex vocabulary, and a structured format. It often involves the use of complete sentences, proper grammar, and a neutral or objective tone. Additionally, formal speech style may involve the use of technical jargon or specialized terminology, particularly in academic or professional settings. Nonverbal cues, such as a serious facial expression, erect posture, and a calm tone of voice, are also important features of formal speech style.

These characteristics help to convey a sense of authority, credibility, and professionalism, which is essential in formal settings. By using complex vocabulary and a structured format, individuals can convey complex information and ideas in a clear and concise manner. The use of technical jargon and specialized terminology can also help to establish credibility and expertise in a particular field or industry.

How Can I Improve My Formal Speech Style?

Improving your formal speech style requires practice, preparation, and attention to detail. One way to improve is to practice speaking in front of a mirror or with a friend or family member. This can help you to become more comfortable with using formal language and nonverbal cues. Additionally, preparing an outline or script can help you to organize your thoughts and convey your message more effectively. It is also essential to focus on your body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions, as these can greatly impact the way your message is received.

Another way to improve your formal speech style is to study examples of effective formal speeches, such as TED Talks or speeches by world leaders. Analyzing these examples can help you to identify key characteristics of formal speech style, such as complex vocabulary, structured format, and nonverbal cues. You can also record yourself speaking and listen to the recording to identify areas for improvement. By following these tips, you can develop a more confident and effective formal speech style.

What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid In Formal Speech Style?

There are several common mistakes to avoid when using formal speech style. One mistake is using colloquial language or slang, which can detract from the credibility and authority of the speaker. Another mistake is using incomplete sentences or filler words, such as “um” or “ah,” which can make the speaker appear nervous or unprepared. Additionally, using a casual tone or making jokes can be inappropriate in formal settings and may offend or distract the audience.

It is also essential to avoid distractions, such as fidgeting, crossing one’s arms, or making excessive eye contact. These nonverbal cues can convey a lack of confidence or sincerity, which can undermine the message being conveyed. Furthermore, it is important to avoid using biased or emotive language, which can alienate certain members of the audience. By avoiding these common mistakes, individuals can present themselves as credible, confident, and professional.

Can I Use Humor In Formal Speech Style?

While humor can be an effective tool in informal settings, it is generally not appropriate in formal speech style. Formal speech style is typically characterized by a serious and objective tone, and the use of humor can detract from the credibility and authority of the speaker. Moreover, humor can be culturally or personally subjective, and may not be understood or appreciated by all members of the audience. However, it is possible to use subtle wit or irony in formal speech style, as long as it is done tastefully and appropriately.

When using humor in formal speech style, it is essential to consider the audience, context, and purpose of the speech. For instance, a lighthearted anecdote or clever quip may be appropriate in a keynote speech or awards ceremony, but may be out of place in a funeral eulogy or business presentation. Ultimately, the use of humor in formal speech style should be done with caution and sensitivity, and should always be subordinate to the main message or purpose of the speech.

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How to write a good speech in 7 steps

By:  Susan Dugdale  

- an easily followed format for writing a great speech

Did you know writing a speech doesn't have be an anxious, nail biting experience?

Unsure? Don't be.

You may have lived with the idea you were never good with words for a long time. Or perhaps giving speeches at school brought you out in cold sweats.

However learning how to write a speech is relatively straight forward when you learn to write out loud.

And that's the journey I am offering to take you on: step by step.

To learn quickly, go slow

Take all the time you need. This speech writing format has 7 steps, each building on the next.

Walk, rather than run, your way through all of them. Don't be tempted to rush. Familiarize yourself with the ideas. Try them out.

I know there are well-advertised short cuts and promises of 'write a speech in 5 minutes'. However in reality they only truly work for somebody who already has the basic foundations of speech writing in place.

The foundation of good speech writing 

These steps are the backbone of sound speech preparation. Learn and follow them well at the outset and yes, given more experience and practice you could probably flick something together quickly. Like any skill, the more it's used, the easier it gets.

In the meantime...

Step 1: Begin with a speech overview or outline

Are you in a hurry? Without time to read a whole page? Grab ... The Quick How to Write a Speech Checklist And come back to get the details later.

• WHO you are writing your speech for (your target audience)
• WHY you are preparing this speech. What's the main purpose of your speech? Is it to inform or tell your audience about something? To teach them a new skill or demonstrate something? To persuade or to entertain? (See 4 types of speeches: informative, demonstrative, persuasive and special occasion or entertaining for more.) What do you want them to think, feel or do as a result of listening the speech?
• WHAT your speech is going to be about (its topic) - You'll want to have thought through your main points and have ranked them in order of importance. And have sorted the supporting research you need to make those points effectively.
• HOW much time you have for your speech eg. 3 minutes, 5 minutes... The amount of time you've been allocated dictates how much content you need. If you're unsure check this page: how many words per minute in a speech: a quick reference guide . You'll find estimates of the number of words required for 1 - 10 minute speeches by slow, medium and fast talkers.

Use an outline

The best way to make sure you deliver an effective speech is to start by carefully completing a speech outline covering the essentials: WHO, WHY, WHAT and HOW.

Beginning to write without thinking your speech through is a bit like heading off on a journey not knowing why you're traveling or where you're going to end up. You can find yourself lost in a deep, dark, murky muddle of ideas very quickly!

Pulling together a speech overview or outline is a much safer option. It's the map you'll follow to get where you want to go.

Get a blank speech outline template to complete

Click the link to find out a whole lot more about preparing a speech outline . ☺ You'll also find a free printable blank speech outline template.  I recommend using it!

Understanding speech construction

Before you begin to write, using your completed outline as a guide, let's briefly look at what you're aiming to prepare.

• an opening or introduction
• the body where the bulk of the information is given
• and an ending (or summary).

Imagine your speech as a sandwich

If you think of a speech as a sandwich you'll get the idea.

The opening and ending are the slices of bread holding the filling (the major points or the body of your speech) together.

You can build yourself a simple sandwich with one filling (one big idea) or you could go gourmet and add up to three or, even five. The choice is yours.

But whatever you choose to serve, as a good cook, you need to consider who is going to eat it! And that's your audience.

So let's find out who they are before we do anything else. 

Step 2: Know who you are talking to

Understanding your audience.

Did you know a  good speech is never written from the speaker's point of view?  ( If you need to know more about why check out this page on  building rapport .)

Begin with the most important idea/point on your outline.

Consider HOW you can explain (show, tell) that to your audience in the most effective way for them to easily understand it.   

Writing from the audience's point of view

To help you write from an audience point of view, it's a good idea to identify either a real person or the type of person who is most likely to be listening to you.

Make sure you select someone who represents the "majority" of the people who will be in your audience. That is they are neither struggling to comprehend you at the bottom of your scale or light-years ahead at the top.

Now imagine they are sitting next to you eagerly waiting to hear what you're going to say. Give them a name, for example, Joe, to help make them real.

Ask yourself

• How do I need to tailor my information to meet Joe's needs? For example, do you tell personal stories to illustrate your main points? Absolutely! Yes. This is a very powerful technique. (Click storytelling in speeches to find out more.)
• What type or level of language is right for Joe as well as my topic? For example, if I use jargon (activity, industry or profession specific vocabulary) will it be understood?

Step 3: Writing as you speak

Writing oral language.

Write down what you want to say about your first main point as if you were talking directly to Joe.

If it helps, say it all out loud before you write it down and/or record it.

Use the information below as a guide

(Click to download The Characteristics of Spoken Language  as a pdf.) 

You do not have to write absolutely everything you're going to say down * but you do need to write down, or outline, the sequence of ideas to ensure they are logical and easily followed.

Remember too, to explain or illustrate your point with examples from your research. 

( * Tip: If this is your first speech the safety net of having everything written down could be just what you need. It's easier to recover from a patch of jitters when you have a word by word manuscript than if you have either none, or a bare outline. Your call!)

Step 4: Checking tone and language

The focus of this step is re-working what you've done in Step 2 and 3.

You identified who you were talking to (Step 2) and in Step 3, wrote up your first main point.  Is it right? Have you made yourself clear?  Check it.

How well you complete this step depends on how well you understand the needs of the people who are going to listen to your speech.

Please do not assume because you know what you're talking about the person (Joe) you've chosen to represent your audience will too. Joe is not a mind-reader!

How to check what you've prepared

• Check the "tone" of your language . Is it right for the occasion, subject matter and your audience?
• Check the length of your sentences. You need short sentences. If they're too long or complicated you risk losing your listeners.

Check for jargon too. These are industry, activity or group exclusive words.

For instance take the phrase: authentic learning . This comes from teaching and refers to connecting lessons to the daily life of students. Authentic learning is learning that is relevant and meaningful for students. If you're not a teacher you may not understand the phrase.

The use of any vocabulary requiring insider knowledge needs to be thought through from the audience perspective. Jargon can close people out.

• Read what you've written out loud. If it flows naturally, in a logical manner, continue the process with your next main idea. If it doesn't, rework.

We use whole sentences and part ones, and we mix them up with asides or appeals e.g. "Did you get that? Of course you did. Right...Let's move it along. I was saying ..."

Click for more about the differences between spoken and written language .

And now repeat the process

Repeat this process for the remainder of your main ideas.

Because you've done the first one carefully, the rest should follow fairly easily.

Step 5: Use transitions

Providing links or transitions between main ideas.

Between each of your main ideas you need to provide a bridge or pathway for your audience. The clearer the pathway or bridge, the easier it is for them to make the transition from one idea to the next.

If your speech contains more than three main ideas and each is building on the last, then consider using a "catch-up" or summary as part of your transitions.

Is your speech being evaluated? Find out exactly what aspects you're being assessed on using this standard speech evaluation form

Link/transition examples

A link can be as simple as:

"We've explored one scenario for the ending of Block Buster 111, but let's consider another. This time..."

What follows this transition is the introduction of Main Idea Two.

Here's a summarizing link/transition example:

"We've ended Blockbuster 111 four ways so far. In the first, everybody died. In the second, everybody died BUT their ghosts remained to haunt the area. In the third, one villain died. His partner reformed and after a fight-out with the hero, they both strode off into the sunset, friends forever. In the fourth, the hero dies in a major battle but is reborn sometime in the future.

And now what about one more? What if nobody died? The fifth possibility..."

Go back through your main ideas checking the links. Remember Joe as you go. Try each transition or link out loud and really listen to yourself. Is it obvious? Easily followed?

Keep them if they are clear and concise.

For more about transitions (with examples) see Andrew Dlugan's excellent article, Speech Transitions: Magical words and Phrases .

Step 6: The end of your speech

The ideal ending is highly memorable . You want it to live on in the minds of your listeners long after your speech is finished. Often it combines a call to action with a summary of major points.

Example speech endings

Example 1: The desired outcome of a speech persuading people to vote for you in an upcoming election is that they get out there on voting day and do so. You can help that outcome along by calling them to register their support by signing a prepared pledge statement as they leave.

"We're agreed we want change. You can help us give it to you by signing this pledge statement as you leave. Be part of the change you want to see!

Example 2: The desired outcome is increased sales figures. The call to action is made urgent with the introduction of time specific incentives.

"You have three weeks from the time you leave this hall to make that dream family holiday in New Zealand yours. Can you do it? Will you do it? The kids will love it. Your wife will love it. Do it now!"

How to figure out the right call to action

A clue for working out what the most appropriate call to action might be, is to go back to your original purpose for giving the speech.

• Was it to motivate or inspire?
• Was it to persuade to a particular point of view?
• Was it to share specialist information?
• Was it to celebrate a person, a place, time or event?

Ask yourself what you want people to do as a result of having listened to your speech.

For more about ending speeches

Visit this page for more about how to end a speech effectively . You'll find two additional types of speech endings with examples.

Write and test

Write your ending and test it out loud. Try it out on a friend, or two. Is it good? Does it work?

Step 7: The introduction

Once you've got the filling (main ideas) the linking and the ending in place, it's time to focus on the introduction.

The introduction comes last as it's the most important part of your speech. This is the bit that either has people sitting up alert or slumped and waiting for you to end. It's the tone setter!

What makes a great speech opening?

Ideally you want an opening that makes listening to you the only thing the 'Joes' in the audience want to do.

You want them to forget they're hungry or that their chair is hard or that their bills need paying.

The way to do that is to capture their interest straight away. You do this with a "hook".

Hooks to catch your audience's attention

Hooks come in as many forms as there are speeches and audiences. Your task is work out what specific hook is needed to catch your audience.

Go back to the purpose. Why are you giving this speech?

Once you have your answer, consider your call to action. What do you want the audience to do, and, or take away, as a result of listening to you?

Next think about the imaginary or real person you wrote for when you were focusing on your main ideas.

Choosing the best hook

• Is it humor?
• Would shock tactics work?
• Is it a rhetorical question?
• Is it formality or informality?
• Is it an outline or overview of what you're going to cover, including the call to action?
• Or is it a mix of all these elements?

A hook example

Here's an example from a fictional political speech. The speaker is lobbying for votes. His audience are predominately workers whose future's are not secure.

"How's your imagination this morning? Good? (Pause for response from audience) Great, I'm glad. Because we're going to put it to work starting right now.

I want you to see your future. What does it look like? Are you happy? Is everything as you want it to be? No? Let's change that. We could do it. And we could do it today.

At the end of this speech you're going to be given the opportunity to change your world, for a better one ...

No, I'm not a magician. Or a simpleton with big ideas and precious little commonsense. I'm an ordinary man, just like you. And I have a plan to share!"

And then our speaker is off into his main points supported by examples. The end, which he has already foreshadowed in his opening, is the call to vote for him.

Prepare several hooks

Experiment with several openings until you've found the one that serves your audience, your subject matter and your purpose best.

For many more examples of speech openings go to: how to write a speech introduction . You'll find 12 of the very best ways to start a speech.

That completes the initial seven steps towards writing your speech. If you've followed them all the way through, congratulations, you now have the text of your speech!

Although you might have the words, you're still a couple of steps away from being ready to deliver them. Both of them are essential if you want the very best outcome possible. They are below. Please take them.

Step 8: Checking content and timing

This step pulls everything together.

Check once, check twice, check three times & then once more!

Go through your speech really carefully.

On the first read through check you've got your main points in their correct order with supporting material, plus an effective introduction and ending.

On the second read through check the linking passages or transitions making sure they are clear and easily followed.

On the third reading check your sentence structure, language use and tone.

Double, triple check the timing

Now go though once more.

This time read it aloud slowly and time yourself.

If it's too long for the time allowance you've been given make the necessary cuts.

Start by looking at your examples rather than the main ideas themselves. If you've used several examples to illustrate one principal idea, cut the least important out.

Also look to see if you've repeated yourself unnecessarily or, gone off track. If it's not relevant, cut it.

Repeat the process, condensing until your speech fits the required length, preferably coming in just under your time limit.

You can also find out how approximately long it will take you to say the words you have by using this very handy words to minutes converter . It's an excellent tool, one I frequently use. While it can't give you a precise time, it does provide a reasonable estimate.

Step 9: Rehearsing your speech

And NOW you are finished with writing the speech, and are ready for REHEARSAL .

Please don't be tempted to skip this step. It is not an extra thrown in for good measure. It's essential.

The "not-so-secret" secret of successful speeches combines good writing with practice, practice and then, practicing some more.

Go to how to practice public speaking and you'll find rehearsal techniques and suggestions to boost your speech delivery from ordinary to extraordinary.

The Quick How to Write a Speech Checklist

Before you begin writing you need:.

• Your speech OUTLINE with your main ideas ranked in the order you're going to present them. (If you haven't done one complete this 4 step sample speech outline . It will make the writing process much easier.)
• Your RESEARCH
• You also need to know WHO you're speaking to, the PURPOSE of the speech and HOW long you're speaking for

The basic format

• the body where you present your main ideas

Split your time allowance so that you spend approximately 70% on the body and 15% each on the introduction and ending.

How to write the speech

• Write your main ideas out incorporating your examples and research
• Link them together making sure each flows in a smooth, logical progression
• Write your ending, summarizing your main ideas briefly and end with a call for action
• Write your introduction considering the 'hook' you're going to use to get your audience listening
• An often quoted saying to explain the process is: Tell them what you're going to tell them (Introduction) Tell them (Body of your speech - the main ideas plus examples) Tell them what you told them (The ending)

TEST before presenting. Read aloud several times to check the flow of material, the suitability of language and the timing.

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Formal and Informal Speech

Speaking is one of the most important skills we learn. It allows us to communicate with others, share our thoughts and ideas, and build relationships. Speaking skills can be divided into two categories: formal and informal. Formal and informal speech refers to the different tones, word choices, and structures used in different situations. Formal speaking is used when communicating with people we do not know well, such as in a job interview or a presentation. Informal speaking is used in situations where we are communicating with people we know well, such as friends and family.

Formal Speech

Formal speech is generally used in professional, academic, or public settings. It often follows the traditional grammatical rules and features a more sophisticated, precise vocabulary. Formal speech is typically more organized and devoid of slang or colloquialisms. It is used in business meetings, presentations, interviews, academic discourse, and ceremonial events.

Formal speech is characterized by the following:

• Use of polite language and grammar
• Avoidance of slang and profanity
• Use of a respectful tone of voice
• Clear and concise language

Formal speech is typically used in professional, academic, ceremonial, or official settings. It is employed when addressing superiors, colleagues, or a broad and diverse audience.

Formal speech often uses more complex and sophisticated vocabulary. It avoids slang, colloquialisms, and contractions (e.g., “do not” instead of “don’t”).

Grammar and Syntax

Proper grammar and syntax are crucial in formal speech. Sentences are typically longer and more structured.

Third-person pronouns (e.g., “he,” “she,” “they”) are preferred over first-person pronouns (e.g., “I,” “we”) in formal speech. This creates a sense of objectivity and detachment.

Formal speech emphasizes politeness and respect. It often includes titles and honorifics (e.g., “Mr. Smith,” “Dr. Johnson”) and uses expressions like “please” and “thank you.”

Lengthy Introductions

Formal speeches often have elaborate introductions, including formal greetings and expressions of gratitude.

Structured Organisation

Formal speeches follow a well-organised structure, often with clear sections like introduction, body, and conclusion.

Nonverbal Cues

Nonverbal cues like maintaining proper posture, eye contact, and using appropriate gestures are important in formal speech.

Formal speeches include presentations, lectures, job interviews, academic papers, and speeches at formal events.

While speaking formally:

• Prepare for your speech or presentation. Make sure you know your material inside and out. Practice your delivery so that you are confident and polished.
• Use clear and concise language. Avoid using jargon or slang.
• Make eye contact with your audience. This will help you to connect with them and keep them engaged.
• Vary your tone of voice. This will help to keep your audience interested.
• Use gestures and body language to emphasize your points.

Informal Speech

Informal speech is typically used in casual, everyday conversations among friends, family, and peers. It’s characterized by its relaxed grammar rules and use of colloquialisms, idioms, slang, and contractions. Spontaneity and personalization, like using first names instead of titles, are common in informal speech. It is used in social media, text messages, casual conversations, and familiar environments.

Informal speech is characterized by the following:

• Use of casual language and grammar
• Use of slang and profanity
• Use of a friendly and relaxed tone of voice
• Use of personal pronouns and nicknames

Informal speech is used in everyday, casual, and social situations. It is how people typically communicate with friends, family, and acquaintances.

Informal speech uses simple and everyday vocabulary. Slang, contractions, and colloquial expressions are ordinary.

While correct grammar is still essential, sentences in informal speech can be shorter and less structured.

First-person pronouns are commonly used, creating a more personal and conversational tone.

Politeness in informal speech is based on social norms and familiarity. It may include informal greetings and expressions like “thanks.”

Brief Introductions

Informal conversations often start directly with the main point and may not include extensive greetings or pleasantries.

Flexibility in Organisation

Informal speech is less rigidly structured. Conversations can flow naturally without strict organisation.

While nonverbal cues are still important, informality allows a more relaxed approach to body language and gestures.

Informal speech includes everyday conversations, text messages, emails to friends, and chats with family members.

While speaking informally:

• Be yourself. Do not try to be someone you’re not.
• Be genuine and authentic. People can tell when you’re being fake.
• Be a good listener. People appreciate it when you take the time to listen to them.
• Be respectful. Even if you disagree with someone, be respectful of their opinion.
• Be humorous. A little humour can go a long way in a conversation.

Both types of speech are necessary and have their place. The choice between formal and informal speech depends on the context, purpose of communication, and the relationship between the speakers. It is vital to adapt your speech style to the context and the expectations of your audience. Using the wrong style of speech in a given situation can lead to misunderstandings or make you appear out of touch. Using formal speech in an informal setting can make you seem cold and distant. Using informal speech in a formal setting can make you seem unprofessional and disrespectful. Switching between formal and informal speech is a valuable communication skill. Speaking is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. However, with effort, you can become a confident and effective speaker.

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The Art of Formal Speech: A Guide to Clarity and Confidence

A formal speech begins with thorough preparation, clear structure, and purposeful delivery. Start by understanding your purpose—are you informing, persuading, or commemorating? Tailor your message to your audience’s expectations, using engaging openings like quotes or anecdotes to capture attention. Structure your speech with an introduction, body, and conclusion, presenting your points logically and supporting them with evidence. Practice extensively to refine your tone, pace, and pronunciation, ensuring a confident and conversational delivery. Use pauses, eye contact, and purposeful gestures to emphasize key points and connect with your audience effectively.

Equally important are adaptability and precise language. Be prepared to adjust based on audience reactions, using humor or stories to re-engage when needed. Avoid jargon, and instead, choose simple, powerful words, enhanced by rhetorical devices like repetition or metaphors to leave a lasting impression. Conclude by expressing gratitude and providing a takeaway or call to action that aligns with your message. By combining preparation, authenticity, and adaptability, you can deliver a formal speech that informs, inspires, and creates a lasting impact.

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• Writing Tips

How to Write a Professional Speech

5-minute read

• 7th May 2022

At some point in your professional career, you may find yourself with the daunting task of writing a speech. However, armed with the right information on how to write an engaging, attention-grabbing speech, you can rest assured that you’ll deliver a truly memorable one. Check out our guide below on how to write a professional speech that will successfully communicate your message and leave your audience feeling like they’ve truly learned something.

1.Understand your audience

Knowing your target audience can help guide you along the writing process. Learn as much as possible about them and the event you’re planning to speak at. Keep these key points in mind when you’re writing your speech.

●  Who are they?

●  Why are they here?

●  What do they hope to learn?

●  How much do they already know about my topic?

●  What am I hoping to teach them?

●  What interests them about my topic?

2. Research your topic

Perform in-depth research and analysis of your topic.

●  Consider all angles and aspects.

●  Think about the various ways you can discuss and debate the subject.

●  Keep in mind why you’re passionate about the topic and what you’re hoping to achieve by discussing it.

●  Determine how you can use the information gathered to connect the dots for your audience.

●  Look for examples or statistics that will resonate with your audience.

●  Sift through the research to pick out the most important points for your audience.

 3. Create an opening hook

The first few minutes of your speech are paramount to its success. This is the moment when your audience truly pays attention and listens attentively.

●  Start with a bold, persuasive opening statement that captures your audience’s attention.

●  Ask a question to get them involved.

●  Offer a shocking statistic or a powerful, well-known quote.

●  Make a statement or rhetoric question and then pause for a moment, allowing them to grasp the gravity of what you’ve just said.

●  Use a personal anecdote or life experience related to your topic to engage them.

4. Use an easy-to-grasp format

When you have the information you need, outline your speech in a way that your audience can easily follow.

●  Start with what you plan to discuss in the speech.

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●  Go deeper into the details of the subject matter.

●  Repeat what you’ve already mentioned in a few brief points.

●  End with a strong statement that sums up what you were trying to achieve.

A typical structure should include:

●  Introduction: Outline the main talking points of your speech.

●  Body: Discuss these points in more detail, offer statistics, case studies, presentation aids, and other evidence to prove your theories.

●  Conclusion: Wrap up your discussion with a bold message that leaves your audience feeling empowered, hopeful, and more knowledgeable about the topic.

5. Add some personality and humor

Remember to let your personality shine through. This speech is more than just words on a page. Allow the audience to feel your passion and vigor. Force them to think about the message you’re conveying.

●  Share personal stories, fears, memories, or failures to help the audience relate to you as a person.

●  Include some humor, jokes, puns, or limericks to give them a brief respite from the complex discussion.

●  Offer well-known, popular, resounding quotes to help them acknowledge the significance of the topic.

5. Use anaphora for emphasis

Repetition is key in speeches. Realistically, you may lose your audience’s attention at times. By repeating key messages, they’ll be able to remember these vital takeaways despite drifting off somewhere in between. Anaphora allows you to repeat certain words or phrases in a clever, unique way that emphasizes your core message.

6. Keep it short and sweet

●  Say what you need to in the shortest amount of time possible.

●  You can’t realistically expect your audience to actively listen if you drone on and on.

●  Provide clear, concise explanations and supporting examples or evidence.

7. Adopt presentation aids

People will quickly understand your message if you show them charts, tables, graphs, photos, or even regular household items .

8. Read it aloud

●  This ensures you achieve a compelling tone of voice.

●  It can also help you determine if the length is appropriate.

●  Reading it aloud can also help you decide if you need to add more jokes, personal anecdotes, or even dramatic pauses and rhetoric questions.

9. End on a powerful note

End with a message that makes your reader feel inspired, motivated, and informed.

10. Proofread your speech

Finally, a well-researched speech riddled with errors, inconsistencies, and an ineffective tone of voice won’t help you achieve your ultimate goal – namely, to enlighten and educate your audience and have them walk away with the topic still playing on their mind. Have a friend or colleague read through your speech to highlight areas that require correction before you’re ready to present.

If you want to learn more about how we can help you write a powerful, resounding, and well-written speech, send us a free sample today.

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