Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (ORELA) Practice Exam

Which would be considered informal language in a professional setting?

1. Respectfully yours

2. What’s the deal?

3. Best regards

4. Thank you for your attention

The correct answer is: What’s the deal?

Informal language in a professional setting often includes phrases or expressions that may be too casual or colloquial for professional communication. "What’s the deal?" exemplifies this type of expression. It is conversational and lacks the formality typically expected in professional contexts. In contrast, "Respectfully yours," "Best regards," and "Thank you for your attention" are all formal expressions that convey a sense of professionalism and respect. These phrases are appropriate for emails, letters, and other communication in a work environment, as they align with standard professional etiquette. They indicate a level of seriousness and respectfulness that strengthens professional relationships and communication. Using informal language like "What’s the deal?" can undermine the professionalism of the communication and may not be taken seriously by the recipient, making it crucial to choose language that maintains the appropriate tone in a professional setting.