The Differences between Spoken English and Written English

The Differences between Spoken English and Written

English

By

XXX

Student’s Number XXX

April 20，2014

Abstract

Although spoken English and written English are both used for communication, there are some aspects of differences between them. The differences between spoken English and written English make them present entirely different functions. As English learners, we should have a idea of what the differences between spoken English and written English. The essay will help us find out the different features of spoken English and written English, thus we can identify the differences between spoken English and written English.

Keywords: Spoken English； Written English； Differences

1. Introduction

There are lots of differences between expressions used in spoken English and written English, which are beyond our imagination. Spoken English and written English differ in many ways and the differences between them are decided by the conditions in which they are used. Generally speaking, spoken English is often presented as unplanned, less structured and is often used in daily conversations

while written English is well-planned, well-organized and is always used in formal occasions.

2. Differences between spoken English and written English

Spoken English and written English seems alternative to English learners. This essay aims to help us grasp their different features, therefore we can use spoken English and written English properly in different occasions.

2.1. English.

Differences in structure between spoken English and written

Spoken English and written English involve different sentence structures. Written English also tends to be longer, always concluding complex and compound sentences. However, sentences in spoken English are usually shorter. Because spoken English is usually used for immediate interactions, spoken English tends to be full of repetitions, incomplete sentences, correction and interruptions. Written English tends to be more complex and intricate with longer sentences and many subordinate clauses.

2.2. Differences in occasions between spoken English and written

English

Spoken English fits daily conversations while written English matches formal occasions. In daily life, people tend to choose some easy and simple words in spoken English, therefore there lots of slang expressions in speech. On the contrary, the choice of vocabulary is more academic and professional.

2.3. Differences in focuses between spoken English and written English

Spoken English requires speakers pay more attention to listening and speaking, while written English requires a good command of writing and reading. Briefly speaking, spoken English and written English involve different language skills.

3. Conclusion

Accordingly, spoken English can’t be completely consistent with written English. This essay find out their differences through their different sentences structure, different occasions and different focuses. We need to pay attention to the differences between spoken English and written English in order that we can use them properly.

Bibliography

1. 北京师范大学外国语文学学院 古明 马博，General Differences between Spoken English and Written English 2.

， The difference between oral English and written English http://wenku.baidu.com/view/b586a107581b6bd97f19ea7e.html. 3.

The online encyclopedia of writing systems and languages, Differences between writing and speech. http://www.omniglot.com/writing/writingvspeech.html