Oral and Written Language Varieties and Registers

Oral and Written Varieties

Oral and written varieties are established on the basis of the transmission channel, which constrains the form of messages.

Relations Between Oral and Written Language

• Before, oral transmission required the physical presence of both transmitter and receiver.
• Written transmission did not require physical proximity and allowed the planning of texts.
• Current technology has enabled a closer relationship between the two varieties, and in neither case is the physical presence of transmitter and receiver necessary.

Differences Between Oral and Written Language

• Oral (verbal) messages: frequent repetitions, interjections, fillers, inconsistency, and great importance attached to nonverbal elements.
• Written language: the ability to review the message allows the use of a more elaborate language.

Composición: Word Formation Processes

Composición: Procedures that combine two or more words to form a new one. Example: scarecrow.

Acronyms

Acronyms: Words built from the initials or syllables of other words. Example: UN.

Register (Registro)

Register is the expressive mode used by a speaker in a particular communicative situation. Main registers include:

• Family: use of terms and familiar words such as mamá, papá, diminutives, abuelo, etc.
• Professional: use of formal salutations (e.g., "Sir", "Madam") and courteous formulas.
• Youth: use of slang, fillers and shortenings.
• Amoroso (Romantic): use of diminutives with sentimental value and endearing terms.

Salutation

Salutations reflect familiarity or trust, while others show respect or politeness.

Usage:

• With family and friends, the familiar form is typically used.
• With strangers, the formal form is used to express courtesy or respect.

Forms of Address

Other formulations for address include:

• Señor / Señora
• Don / Doña
• Certain professions: Doctor, Lawyer, etc.

Formulas to Address Authorities

• Your Majesty: kings, queens, princes, princesses.
• Excellency: president, chairperson of the congress, the ombudsman.
• Illustrious: consuls, police commissioners.
• Your Honor: judges and certain members of legislative bodies (Congress, Senate).

Formal and Colloquial Varieties

The difference between colloquial and formal stylistic varieties depends on the type of relationship that exists between sender and receiver in the communication process.

Features

Formal Variety

• Content is organized and words are precisely chosen.
• In writing, standard spelling and punctuation are respected.

Colloquial Variety

• Presence of repetitions and unfinished sentences.
• Use of interjections, catchphrases, and idioms.
• Use of diminutives, augmentatives, and shortenings.

Although the conversational style is typical of the oral variety, it may also appear in written texts.