What Are The Five Types Of Speech Style Or Communicative Style?

TYPES OF SPEECH STYLE – In this topic, we will now discuss about the five different types of speech style or communicative style.

But first, let us know what is the meaning of a speech style or a communicative style

A speech style, according to Martin Joos (1976), a linguist and German professor, it refers to the form of language that the speaker utilized which is characterized by the level of formality.

Still according to Jooz, speech style is identified into five types: frozen, formal, consultative, casual, and intimate.

Five Types

Frozen style
- Also known as fixed speech, it is the highest form of communicative style which is often used in respectful situations or formal ceremonies like Shakespearean plays, weddings, funerals, and more. It uses the complex grammatical sentence structure and vocabulary that are only known by experts in that field
Formal Style
- This type uses formal words and expressions and is mostly seen in writing rather than speaking. It also disallows the use of ellipsis, contractions, and qualifying modal adverbials.
Consultative Style
- The third level of language. It is basically unplanned speech since the speaker uses the participation and feedback of the listener. The speaker will supply background information, while again, the listener participates continuously
Casual Style
- Also known as informal style, it is usually used between, friends, or even insiders who have things to share. In this type, there is a free and easy participation of both speaker and listener.
Intimate Style
- The last type is used in talks between two very close individuals. It is described by an economy of words, with a high chance of nonverbal communication. Like casual, there is also a free and easy participation of both speaker and listener.