When we speak to people, we choose our words carefully to suit the occasion. If you want to borrow money from a bank, and you have an appointment with the bank manager, you do not say to him, “Hi mate! How’s it goin’?” This would be inappropriate because it is too informal.

Similarly, if you meet your friends in Starbucks for a coffee, you do not say to them, “Notwithstanding the unseasonably high temperatures, I will nevertheless elect to consume a hot beverage.” This too would be inappropriate, as it would sound too formal. Continue reading »