Differences+Between+Written+and+Spoken+Language

Differences Between Written and Spoken Language: Don't Write the Way You Speak!

Speaking and writing are similar in the sense that they both use language: they both are essential forms of communication. However, one of the biggest mistakes that students use in their writing, especially formal writing, is the use of "spoken" wording.

Let's look at the differences between spoken and written language:

SPOKEN LANGUAGE often incorporates contractions. WRITTEN LANGUAGE should NOT incorporate contractions unless the piece is a personal one.

SPOKEN LANGUAGE makes use of questions to bring focus to the listener. WRITTEN LANGUAGE should limit the use of questions and stick to statements. (In analysis writing, especially)

SPOKEN LANGUAGE often involves fragments and clauses: "But that is not that case." "A strange fellow." WRITTEN LANGUAGE should stick to fully developed and grammatically correct sentence structure.

SPOKEN LANGUAGE contains certain conversational words that make sense when communicating orally: "Well," "You know," "I guess," "I suppose," and other fillers are more acceptable when speaking. WRITTEN LANGUAGE should never employ these spoken structures.

SPOKEN LANGUAGE makes use of the first and second person. WRITTEN LANGUAGE should stick to third person if formal or analytical. Writing about literature should never occur in anything but the third person.

BE CAREFUL with your writing! BE CAREFUL with your speaking!