Formal Letter vs. Informal Letter: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 19, 2024
A formal letter follows a strict structure and formal language for professional or official communication, while an informal letter is casual, using a personal tone and flexible structure, typically for personal communication.
Key Differences
A formal letter adheres to a specific format, including sender and recipient's addresses, date, salutation, body, closing, and signature. An informal letter lacks a strict format, often starting directly with a salutation and closing casually.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Formal letters use professional language, avoid slang, and maintain a respectful and distant tone. Informal letters, conversely, use casual language, idiomatic expressions, and a friendly, personal tone.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Formal letters are used for official, business, or academic purposes, such as job applications, complaints, or official requests. Informal letters are used for personal communication, like writing to friends or family.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
In formal letters, precision and clarity are paramount, and the content is focused and objective. Informal letters can be more expressive, subjective, and conversational, often meandering off-topic.
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Jan 19, 2024
Formal letters often require addressing the recipient by titles and last names, while informal letters use first names or nicknames, reflecting a personal relationship.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Salutations/Closings
Formal titles, professional closings
First names, casual closings
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Jan 19, 2024
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Formal Letter and Informal Letter Definitions
Formal Letter
Maintains a respectful and distant tone.
The formal letter to the embassy was carefully worded.
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Jan 09, 2024
Informal Letter
Often written for personal communication with friends or family.
The informal letter shared news about family events.
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Jan 09, 2024
Formal Letter
Follows conventions like formal salutations and closings.
The formal letter ended with Yours sincerely.
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Jan 09, 2024
Informal Letter
A personal letter without a strict structure.
She sent an informal letter to her cousin abroad.
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Jan 09, 2024
Formal Letter
Uses official language for business or academic purposes.
She wrote a formal letter of complaint to the municipality.
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Jan 09, 2024
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Informal Letter
Uses first names and casual closings.
The informal letter began with Hey John and ended with Take care.
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Jan 09, 2024
Formal Letter
Includes sender and recipient's formal addresses.
His formal letter began with the company's full address.
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Jan 09, 2024
Informal Letter
Uses casual, everyday language and expressions.
His informal letter was filled with slang and jokes.
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Jan 09, 2024
Formal Letter
A letter with a specific format for professional communication.
The formal letter to the CEO included a detailed proposal.
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Jan 09, 2024
Informal Letter
Expresses personal thoughts in a friendly tone.
Her informal letter conveyed heartfelt congratulations.
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Jan 09, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is an informal letter?
A casual letter typically used for personal messages.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Should I address a formal letter to a specific person?
Yes, if possible, with their title and last name.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Are email signatures important in formal letters?
Yes, they add to the letter's professionalism.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
What is a formal letter?
A structured letter used for professional communication.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
When should I use a formal letter?
For official, business, or academic purposes.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Can I use slang in an informal letter?
Yes, it's common in casual personal communication.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Can informal letters be creative in layout?
Yes, they're flexible in format and design.
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Jan 19, 2024
Do formal letters require a return address?
Yes, it's part of the standard format.
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Jan 19, 2024
Can an informal letter be handwritten?
Yes, it often adds a personal touch.
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Jan 19, 2024
Do formal letters require a specific closing?
Yes, like "Yours sincerely" or "Respectfully".
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
How do I start an informal letter?
Usually with a casual greeting like "Hi" or "Hello".
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Jan 19, 2024
Can I use emojis in informal letters?
Yes, they can convey emotions effectively.
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Jan 19, 2024
Is it okay to use contractions in informal letters?
Yes, they're common in casual writing.
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Jan 19, 2024
Is proofreading important for formal letters?
Very, to maintain professionalism and clarity.
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Jan 19, 2024
How do I close an informal letter?
With a personal touch like "Best wishes" or "Cheers".
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Can I share personal stories in an informal letter?
Absolutely, it's meant for personal exchanges.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Can I discuss multiple topics in an informal letter?
Yes, it can be as varied as a conversation.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
Is a subject line necessary in a formal letter?
Often, yes, to clarify the letter's purpose.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 19, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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