Contractions in Writing Examples: How to Use Them Properly

Contractions in writing are a common way to shorten words and phrases. They are widely used in informal writing, such as emails, texts, and social media posts. However, when it comes to formal writing, such as academic papers, business reports, and official documents, the use of contractions is often discouraged or prohibited. In this article, we`ll explore the dos and don`ts of using contractions in writing and provide some examples to help you understand when and how to use them properly.

What Are Contractions in Writing?

Contractions in writing occur when two words are combined into one by omitting one or more letters and replacing them with an apostrophe. For example, “I am” can be contracted to “I`m,” “do not” can be contracted to “don`t,” and “they will” can be contracted to “they`ll.” Contractions are often used in informal writing to make the text flow more smoothly and to create a casual tone.

Dos and Don`ts of Using Contractions in Writing

When it comes to using contractions in writing, there are some dos and don`ts to keep in mind. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Do use contractions in informal writing: As we mentioned earlier, contractions are common in informal writing, such as personal emails, texts, and social media posts. They help to create a conversational tone and make the text more relatable.

Don`t use contractions in formal writing: In formal writing, such as academic papers, business reports, and official documents, contractions should be avoided. They can make the text seem too casual and unprofessional.

Do consider your audience: Before using contractions, think about your audience. If you`re writing for a general audience, contractions are generally acceptable. However, if you`re writing for a specific audience, such as a professional organization or academic journal, it`s best to err on the side of caution and avoid contractions altogether.

Don`t overuse contractions: While contractions are helpful for creating a conversational tone, overusing them can be distracting and make the text difficult to read. Use them sparingly and only when they add value to the text.

Examples of Using Contractions in Writing

To help you understand when and how to use contractions in writing, here are some examples:

Informal Writing:

– “I`m so excited to see you!” (contraction of “I am”)

– “Don`t forget to bring your swimsuit!” (contraction of “do not”)

– “They`ll be here any minute now.” (contraction of “they will”)

– “I`ve got a surprise for you!” (contraction of “I have”)

Formal Writing:

– “I am writing to inquire about your services.” (no contraction)

– “We do not tolerate discrimination in our workplace.” (no contraction)

– “They will receive their diplomas at the graduation ceremony.” (no contraction)

– “It is important to provide accurate and complete information.” (no contraction)

In conclusion, while contractions are helpful for creating a conversational tone in informal writing, they should be avoided in formal writing and used sparingly. By following these guidelines and examples, you`ll be able to use contractions properly in your writing to convey your message effectively.