Register – Short Notes
Definition:
- Speech variety used by a particular group sharing the same occupation or interest is called register.
- Use-based variety of language.
- Depends on what we are doing, where, and to whom we are speaking.
- Language varies by subject matter, situation, and audience.
Examples: language in literature vs. science vs. sports; medicine vs. religion; formal vs. informal; written vs. spoken.
Types of Register:
1. Field-based Register
- Based on subject matter or field of discussion.
- Examples: Literary English, Scientific English, Sports English, Legal English.
2. Mode-based Register
- Based on medium of communication.
- Two main forms: Spoken and Written language.
3. Tenor / Situation-based Register
- Based on relationship between participants.
- Formal or informal depending on time, place, and relationship.
Examples of Registers:
- Education: examination, syllabus, curriculum, homework, students, teachers.
- Humanities & Social Sciences: society, caste, gender, culture, poem, ritual, festival.
- Science & Technology: machine, nuclear fusion, solar system, robot, vaccine.
- Law & Justice: court, lawyer, case, arrest, crime, prison, capital punishment.