Mastering Formal vs Informal Language for TOEFL Writing in 2025

Preparing for the TOEFL Writing section in 2025? If so, understanding the difference between formal and informal language is crucial to securing a high score. The TOEFL writing tasks, especially the Academic Discussion and Independent Essay, require a tone that matches the expectations of an academic setting. Many students lose points not for lack of ideas, but because their writing style is too casual or conversational for a university-level test.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn why formality matters, how to spot informal vs. formal phrases, see practical model answers, and get actionable tips to polish your writing-so your essays reflect the professionalism TOEFL raters expect.

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What is Formal Language and Why Does It Matter on the TOEFL?

Formal language refers to a style of writing that is respectful, precise, and appropriate for academic or professional contexts. For the TOEFL, this means:

• Avoiding slang and colloquial expressions
• Using complete sentences
• Not using contractions (e.g., "don't" should be "do not")
• Maintaining a polite and impersonal tone

The TOEFL is designed to test your readiness for university-level work. Universities require students to write academic assignments, participate in classroom discussions, and communicate with professors-all scenarios that demand formal English. Informal language can make your writing seem less credible and may even confuse the reader if unfamiliar idioms or slang are used.

Benefits of Using Formal Language on TOEFL:

• Demonstrates academic readiness
• Improves clarity and precision
• Matches the expectations of TOEFL scorers
• Reduces the chance of misunderstandings

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Common Features of Formal vs. Informal Language

Before you start writing, it is vital to understand the hallmarks of both styles.

Example:

• Informal: "Basically, the prof is saying that the internet's made life easier."
• Formal: "Essentially, the professor states that the internet has made life more convenient."

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Why Is Informal Language a Problem in TOEFL Writing?

TOEFL writing raters are expecting essays that could fit into a real university assignment. Let's look at how informal language can hurt your score:

• Lowered Task Achievement: Using slang or conversational language can make your essay seem off-topic or immature.
• Reduced Cohesion: Fragmented, informal sentences often lack logical connectors and clear transitions.
• Grammar and Clarity Issues: Informal writing might contain fragments and errors that make your argument unclear.

Examples of Informal vs Formal Equivalents

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Does the TOEFL Always Require Formal Writing?

Yes-especially for the Writing section. Both the Independent Writing task and the new Academic Discussion ask that you write as if addressing professors or academic peers. Unlike speaking tasks, where conversational English is natural, essays should reflect the language standards of an academic institution.

Even though you are often asked to express personal opinions, use polite and precise language:

• Do say: "In my opinion, public transportation offers several advantages."
• Do NOT say: "I think public transport is cool."

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Practical Tips: How to Maintain a Formal Academic Tone in Your TOEFL Essay

1. Avoid Contractions

• Use: "Do not", "Cannot", "Will not"
• Avoid: "Don't", "Can't", "Won't"

Model:

• Informal: "Teachers don't always give students enough feedback."
• Formal: "Teachers do not always provide students with sufficient feedback."

2. Skip Slang and Colloquial Phrases

• Replace "kids" with "children" or "students"
• Swap "a bunch of" with "many" or "numerous"
• Change "get" to "receive" or "obtain"

Model:

• Informal: "Kids get stressed when they have lots of stuff to do."
• Formal: "Children experience stress when they have a multitude of tasks to complete."

3. Use Academic Vocabulary and Sentence Structures

• Employ transition words: "Furthermore," "Nevertheless," "Consequently"
• Structure your essay with clear introductions, body paragraphs, and conclusions

Model:

• Informal: "On top of that, he kept bothering everyone."
• Formal: "Additionally, he disrupted the activities of others."

4. Stay Respectful and Polite

• Avoid direct criticism; instead, be diplomatic
• Use hedging: "It appears that...", "One might argue...", "Some suggest..."

Model:

• Informal: "That's a bad idea."
• Formal: "This approach may not be beneficial in all cases."

5. Limit Personal Pronouns

While you may occasionally use "I" for personal opinions, avoid overusing personal pronouns. Try to focus on broader, objective statements.

Model:

• Informal: "I really think this is the best way."
• Formal: "This method appears to be the most effective."

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TOEFL Academic Discussion (2025 Update): Formality Still Matters

The TOEFL introduced a new "Academic Discussion" task in 2023. In this task, you respond to a question from a professor and engage with the views of classmates, simulating an online discussion board.

Key point: Even though this task feels conversational, you are still expected to address the professor respectfully and use academic language.

Example Prompt

"Do you agree or disagree that technology has improved education? Share your reasons and respond to at least one other classmate's opinion."

Sample Student Responses:

• Too Informal:
  "Yep, tech is awesome! I totally agree with Mike - you can just Google stuff and get answers super quick."
• Appropriate Formality:
  "I agree with Michael's point that technology provides students with rapid access to information. Additionally, online resources enable more personalized learning experiences, which can enhance educational outcomes."

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Model Paragraph: Informal vs. Formal for TOEFL Writing

Prompt:
Some people think that it is better to study in groups while others prefer to study alone. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Informal Version

I think studying in a group is chill because you can just ask other people if you get stuck. On the other hand, if you're by yourself, you don't have anyone to bug you. In my opinion, both are good but it depends on the person.

Formal Version

Studying in a group offers the opportunity to collaborate with peers and seek clarification when encountering difficulties. Conversely, studying individually provides an environment free from distractions, which may benefit students who prefer solitude. In conclusion, both approaches have advantages, and the most suitable method largely depends on individual learning preferences.

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The Most Common Formality Mistakes in TOEFL Writing - And How to Fix Them

1. Overusing Contractions

• Fix: Practice rewriting sentences in their full forms.

2. Using Conversational Words/Phrases

• Fix: Identify and replace words like "cool", "guy", or "sort of" with academic alternatives.

3. Unnecessary Personal Comments

• Fix: Focus on the topic, not on anecdotes or jokes.

4. Texting Abbreviations and Emojis

• Fix: Never use "u" for "you", "lol", or emojis in TOEFL writing.

5. Weak Thesis Statements

• Fix: Use clear, direct language without hedging: "This essay will argue that..."

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Strategies to Practice Formal Language for TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE Academic

1. Read Model Essays

Studying high-scoring essays on platforms like ETS, official IELTS resources, or expert-level TOEFL practice books will reinforce the tone expected in academic writing.

2. Rewrite Informal Texts

Take casual emails or chat messages and practice turning them into university-level English. For instance, change "Hey, what's up?" to "Good afternoon, I hope this message finds you well."

3. Get Instant Feedback

Using Essay Tutor (study.essaytutor.app), you can submit practice essays and receive immediate, AI-powered feedback on formality, grammar, vocabulary, and more. Our platform highlights informal phrases, suggests academic alternatives, and helps you polish your argument to university standards-so you can practice smarter, not harder.

4. Build a Vocabulary List

Create a table with common informal words on one side and their formal counterparts on the other. Review and practice using the formal alternatives.

5. Peer Review

Exchange essays with classmates or tutors. Ask them to highlight any expressions or sentences that sound too informal for academic writing.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Formal English in TOEFL Writing

How formal should my TOEFL essay be?

Aim for a tone similar to what you would use in university essays, academic articles, or formal reports. Avoid being overly stiff, but do not use everyday spoken English.

Are first-person pronouns ("I", "we") acceptable on TOEFL?

Limited use is acceptable, particularly in the Independent Writing task when giving your opinion. However, overusing "I think" or "I believe" is discouraged.

Will I get a lower score if I use informal language?

Yes. Scorers look for academic tone, clear structure, and precise language, as outlined in the official TOEFL Writing scoring rubrics.

Can contractions be used in TOEFL writing?

It is safest to avoid them. Full forms demonstrate stronger command of written English and are universally appropriate in academic contexts.

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Sample TOEFL Essay Paragraphs: Before and After Formal Editing

Prompt:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? It is better to live in a city than in the countryside.

Informal Draft
To me, city life is the best. There's so much to do, and you don't get bored. Plus, you have stuff like malls and cinemas everywhere. I don't think I could stand living where there's nothing around.

Revised Formal Draft
In my opinion, residing in a city offers significant advantages due to the wide variety of available activities and amenities. Urban areas provide access to entertainment venues such as shopping centers and cinemas, making life more convenient and engaging. Therefore, I believe that city life is preferable to living in rural areas.

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Key Takeaways: How to Master Formal Language for TOEFL in 2025

• Always use full words (no contractions), precise vocabulary, and academic tone
• Avoid slang, idioms, texting shortcuts, or colloquial phrases
• Practice rewriting informal phrases using the tips and tables above
• Rely on model essays and expert feedback to self-correct and improve
• Use platforms like Essay Tutor for instant grammar checks, phrase suggestions, and writing evaluation

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Ready to Transform Your TOEFL Writing?

Formality is not just about sounding fancy-it's about showing you can think, argue, and communicate at a university level in English. By mastering the difference between formal and informal language, you'll not only boost your TOEFL score but also prepare yourself for real academic success.

Remember, perfecting your writing takes targeted practice and honest feedback. If you want to see precisely where your essays need improvement, get instant evaluation, grammar correction, and phrase enhancement at Essay Tutor. Start practicing today, and take the next step toward your academic dreams!

You've got this! Stay formal, stay focused-and happy writing!