The Different Speech Styles

1. Frozen
It is the most formal communicative style that is usually used during respectful events and
ceremonies. It also used when one shows hesitation, disinterest or prejudice. Frozen speech is
used generally in a very formal setting, does not require any feedback from the audience, most
formal communicative style for respectful situations.
EXAMPLE: Pledges, anthems, marriage ceremonies, laws, school creeds, etc.

2. Intimate
For very close relationships like couples, family, and best friends. It is also used for self-
addressed questions or self-talk, etc. Intimate speech is used in conversation between people
who are very close and know each other quite well because they have the maximum of shared
background information.
EXAMPLES: Couple talking about their future plans, family sharing ideas, very close friends
sharing secrets, etc.

3. Formal
Formal speeches are straightforward speeches. In this speech style, the speaker avoids
using slang terminologies, what the speaker says is something that has been prepared
beforehand, its complex sentence and noun phrases are well structured, logically sequenced
and strongly coherent.
EXAMPLES: Announcements, SONA, welcome addresses, meetings, speeches, court, etc.

4. Casual
This is an informal communication between groups and peers. Casual style is used in
conversation between friends and insiders who have something to share and have shared
background information but don’t have close relations.
EXAMPLES: phone calls, everyday conversation with friends, chats, etc.

5. Consultative
This is used in semi-formal communication, sentences end to be shorter and spontaneous,
the speaker does not usually plan what he/she wants to say, most operational among others.
EXAMPLES: regular classroom discussions, doctor-patient, etc.
 Assignment:
In a one whole sheet of paper, accomplish the table by writing on
the 2nd column the speech style appropriate to the given
communicative situation in the 1st column.
Communicative Situation Speech Style to be Used
1. Talking to a counselor
2. Delivering a campaign speech
3. Telephone conversations
4. Delivering a graduation speech
5. Leading the oath of amateurism
6. State of the Nation Address
7. Couple talking about their future plans
8. Very close friends sharing secrets
9. Doctor-patient conversation
10. Interview
11. Giving the welcome remarks
12. Marriage ceremonies
13. Conversations between expert and
apprentice
14. Family sharing ideas
15. Oratorical speaking