正式与非正式语体

Formal vs Informal Register in Chinese

Chinese has a clear divide between 书面语 (written/formal language) and 口语 (colloquial speech). At C1 level, mastering this divide is essential.

Key differences

Formal (书面语):

• Single-character verbs preferred: 使 (to make/cause), 予 (to give), 进行 (to carry out)
• Classical structures: 鉴于、据此、综上所述
• No filler words or particles like 吧/呢

Informal (口语):

• Multi-syllable equivalents: 让/叫, 给, 做/搞
• Particles like 嘛、呢、吧 are natural
• Shorter sentences, looser structure

💬 Formal: "鉴于上述情况，本部门决定暂缓该计划。"

→ "Given the above circumstances, this department has decided to postpone the plan."

💬 Informal: "就这个情况，我们先不搞那个计划了吧。"

→ "Given this situation, let's just put that plan on hold for now."

Address forms (称谓)

• Formal: 您好 (respectful you), 贵公司 (your esteemed company), 阁下 (Your Honour)
• Informal: 你好, 你们公司, 老板

Honorifics (敬辞) vs Humble forms (谦辞)

• 敬辞 (for others): 请、惠顾、赐教、垂询
• 谦辞 (for yourself): 拙作、鄙见、寒舍、敝人