Mode of Communication and Language Use

Topic 3: Mode of Communication and Language Use

Written communication

People also communicate with each other by writing. Written communication can be very formal, such as in a business letter or a company report. Other kinds of writing are less formal, such as in friendly letters, emails, and blogs.

In recent years, the differences between written communication and spoken communication have become less clear. Look at the picture. What does the text message say? Is the language in the message, "Are you waiting for us?" more like written or spoken language?

Some kinds of written communication (text messages, social network posts, and blogs) are often very similar to spoken speech. In addition, some kinds of spoken speech, such as news broadcasts and speeches, are very similar to written speech. That means they are more formal.