ENGLISH
REFERENCE

informal

adj.
US //ˌɪnˈfɔɹməɫ// UK //ɪnfˈɔːməl// in·for·mal
  1. 1 casual style or dress (adj.)
    A2 Elementary

    relaxed and comfortable, rather than official or serious.

    characterised by a relaxed style or manner; suited for everyday use rather than official ceremonies.

    Example

    The party is informal, so you can just wear jeans and a t-shirt.

    Example

    The company maintains an informal dress code to foster a more creative and approachable atmosphere among the staff.
  2. 2 language or register (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    using everyday words that you would use with friends, not in a serious essay.

    denoting a style of writing or speech characterised by common words, contractions, and a conversational tone.

    Example

    In an informal email to a friend, it is okay to use slang.

    Example

    While the presentation was professional, the speaker used an informal tone to build a quicker rapport with the audience.
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  1. 3 unofficial or unstructured (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    not following official rules or a fixed plan.

    not conducted according to official regulations or structured procedures.

    Example

    We had an informal meeting in the hallway to discuss the new project.

    Example

    The two leaders held an informal discussion over dinner, away from the rigid protocols of the official summit.
Origin

From in- + formal.

Word family

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