When writing in a formal style, writers should avoid the following:
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Colloquialisms and Slang: Use of informal language, expressions, or jargon can detract from the professionalism of the writing.
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Contractions: Words like "can't," "won't," and "they're" should be written in their full forms (e.g., "cannot," "will not," "they are") to maintain formality.
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First-Person Pronouns: Avoid using "I," "me," "my," "we," and "us" unless necessary. Formal writing often favors a more objective tone.
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Overly Casual Language: Phrases that are too relaxed or casual can undermine the seriousness of the content.
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Vague Language: Avoid being imprecise or ambiguous. Use clear and specific language to convey your ideas effectively.
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Excessive Adjectives and Adverbs: While descriptive language can be useful, overuse can make writing seem cluttered or exaggerated.
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Rhetorical Questions: These can appear informal and can undermine the authority of the writing.
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Emotional Language: Keep a neutral tone; overly emotional or subjective language can weaken logical arguments.
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Unsubstantiated Claims: Always back up your arguments or statements with evidence, as unsupported claims can appear weak or unreliable.
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Informal Phrasing or Sentence Structures: Use complete, well-structured sentences and avoid overly casual phrasing.
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Personal Anecdotes: Refrain from including personal stories or experiences unless they serve a clear purpose and are relevant to the topic.
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Incomplete or Fragmented Sentences: Formal writing should uphold grammatical correctness, avoiding sentence fragments and run-ons.
By avoiding these elements, writers can ensure their formal writing maintains a professional tone and effectively communicates their ideas.