What are the social contexts for formal versus informal Russian expressions

In Russian, formal and informal expressions are used in different social contexts based on factors like social distance, age, status, and relationship closeness.

Formal expressions are typically used:

• When addressing strangers, elders, superiors, or in professional and official settings.
• To show respect and politeness, often using titles, full names, patronymics, and the formal “вы” (you).
• In invitations, speeches, and official communication where maintaining social hierarchy and politeness is important.

Informal expressions are common:

• Among family members, close friends, and peers.
• When the social distance is small and relationships are equal or intimate.
• Using first names, nicknames, and the informal “ты” (you), signaling familiarity and warmth.

Russian culture strongly marks formality and informality through these linguistic choices, reflecting the underlying social hierarchy and interpersonal closeness. The difference also influences politeness strategies and speech acts like invitations, greetings, and thanks, with formal language emphasizing respect and social distance, while informal language conveys friendliness and intimacy. ^{1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

Verweise

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