What characterizes formal language in academic writing?

Formal language in academic writing is characterized by professionalism and the avoidance of colloquialisms and slang. This style of writing aims to convey information clearly and objectively, making it suitable for scholarly communication. By maintaining a formal tone, the writer enhances the credibility of their arguments and reflects a respect for the subject matter and audience.

In academic contexts, the use of informal speech patterns, casual phrases, and everyday language can undermine the rigor of the analysis and may distract from the main points being made. The avoidance of such non-formal expressions allows the writing to remain focused on the topic at hand, thus facilitating a more effective exchange of ideas among peers and within research communities.