Duolingo English Test Formal and Informal Language Quiz

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| Questions: 15 | Updated: May 7, 2026
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1. Which sentence uses formal language appropriate for a business email?

Explanation

The sentence "I am writing to inquire about the status of the project" employs formal language suitable for a business email. It clearly states the purpose of the communication and uses polite, professional phrasing, which is essential in maintaining a respectful tone in business correspondence.

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About This Quiz
Duolingo English Test Formal and Informal Language Quiz - Quiz

This quiz tests your ability to distinguish between formal and informal English, a key skill for the Duolingo English Test. You'll practice recognizing appropriate register in professional, academic, and casual contexts. Master these distinctions to communicate effectively across different situations and improve your writing proficiency. Key focus: Duolingo English Test... see moreFormal and Informal Language Quiz. see less

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2. Identify the informal phrase in this sentence: 'I'm gonna head to the store real quick.'

Explanation

In the sentence, "gonna" is an informal contraction of "going to," commonly used in casual speech. "Real quick" is also an informal expression meaning "very quickly." Together, these phrases reflect a relaxed conversational style, making them stand out as informal language compared to the other options.

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3. Which response is most formal?

Explanation

"I appreciate your assistance" is the most formal response because it uses polite language and expresses gratitude in a professional manner. Unlike the other options, which are more casual and conversational, this phrase maintains a respectful tone suitable for formal communication.

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4. Rewrite this informal sentence in formal English: 'Stuff happened that messed everything up.'

Explanation

The chosen response maintains a formal tone by replacing the informal term "stuff" with "circumstances" and using "disrupted operations" instead of the colloquial phrase "messed everything up." This enhances clarity and professionalism, making the statement more suitable for formal contexts.

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5. Which is an example of formal academic writing?

Explanation

Formal academic writing is characterized by clarity, precision, and a formal tone. The sentence "The findings demonstrated significant correlations between variables" uses specific terminology, avoids casual language, and presents information in an objective manner, making it suitable for academic contexts. This contrasts with the other options, which are informal and vague.

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6. Choose the sentence with informal contractions.

Explanation

The sentence "We've decided to postpone the meeting" contains the informal contraction "We've," which shortens "We have." This informal style is commonly used in casual conversation, distinguishing it from the other sentences that use more formal language without contractions.

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7. Which phrase is too casual for a formal letter?

Explanation

"No worries" is an informal expression commonly used in casual conversations. It conveys a relaxed attitude and is inappropriate for a formal letter, where a more professional tone is expected. Phrases like "Sincerely yours," "In conclusion," and "Furthermore" maintain the necessary formality and respect required in such correspondence.

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8. Formal writing avoids ____.

Explanation

Formal writing aims to maintain a professional tone and clarity, which is undermined by the use of slang and colloquialisms. These informal expressions can create ambiguity and distract from the intended message, making them inappropriate for academic, legal, or business contexts where precision and formality are essential.

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9. Which sentence is appropriate for texting a friend?

Explanation

The sentence "Ur gonna love this movie!" is casual and friendly, making it suitable for texting a friend. It conveys excitement and enthusiasm in a relatable tone, which aligns with the informal nature of texting among friends, unlike the other options that are more formal or serious.

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10. Identify the formal alternative to 'get': 'We need to get more information.'

Explanation

"Obtain" is a formal term that conveys the act of acquiring or securing something, such as information. It is more appropriate in professional or academic contexts than casual alternatives like "grab" or "pick up," which imply a less serious approach. Using "obtain" enhances the formality and clarity of the statement.

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11. Which statement best describes register in English?

Explanation

Register in English refers to the variation in language use based on context, audience, and purpose. It encompasses the level of formality or informality in communication, influencing word choice, tone, and style to suit different situations, such as casual conversations versus formal presentations.

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12. Choose the most formal way to disagree.

Explanation

Using "I respectfully disagree with that perspective" conveys disagreement while maintaining a polite and formal tone. It acknowledges the other person's viewpoint and expresses a differing opinion without being confrontational, making it suitable for professional or formal settings. This approach fosters constructive dialogue and demonstrates respect for differing opinions.

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13. In academic writing, which is appropriate?

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14. Which informal phrase should be replaced in formal writing?

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15. Select the sentence written in conversational, informal tone.

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Which sentence uses formal language appropriate for a business email?
Identify the informal phrase in this sentence: 'I'm gonna head to the...
Which response is most formal?
Rewrite this informal sentence in formal English: 'Stuff happened that...
Which is an example of formal academic writing?
Choose the sentence with informal contractions.
Which phrase is too casual for a formal letter?
Formal writing avoids ____.
Which sentence is appropriate for texting a friend?
Identify the formal alternative to 'get': 'We need to get more...
Which statement best describes register in English?
Choose the most formal way to disagree.
In academic writing, which is appropriate?
Which informal phrase should be replaced in formal writing?
Select the sentence written in conversational, informal tone.
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