How do formal and informal Italian differ in vocabulary and tone

Formal and informal Italian differ notably in vocabulary and tone. Formal Italian uses more polite, respectful, and standard language, often including complete, grammatically correct sentences and more complex or literary vocabulary. It is common in official communication, professional contexts, and when addressing strangers or superiors. Informal Italian, by contrast, is more casual and relaxed, using simpler and sometimes colloquial vocabulary. It may include slang, contractions, idiomatic expressions, and incomplete sentences, typical among friends, family, or peers.

In formal Italian, the tone is respectful and avoids directness or familiarity, while informal Italian adopts a friendly, familiar, and personal tone. Vocabulary choice in the formal register tends to be more careful and precise, while informal language favors everyday terms and expressions that reflect spoken language fluency and social intimacy.

These differences affect how Italians navigate social hierarchy, intimacy, and politeness in communication, adjusting language depending on context and relationship to the interlocutor. ^{2, 20}

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