Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “survey”! Whether you are looking for formal or informal ways to express this word, we have got you covered. In this guide, we will also explore regional variations where applicable, providing you with tips, examples, and insights along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Survey
When it comes to formal language, it’s important to use respectful and professional terms. Here are a few formal alternatives to say “survey”:
1. Poll
Poll is a commonly used term for a formal survey. It is often conducted to gather opinions or collect data for research purposes. For example:
“We are conducting a poll to gauge public opinion on the upcoming election.”
2. Questionnaire
Another formal term to express “survey” is questionnaire. A questionnaire is a set of written questions used to gather information or opinions from a specific group of people. For instance:
“Please complete the questionnaire to provide feedback on our new product.”
Informal Ways to Say Survey
Informal language allows for a more relaxed and casual tone. Here are a couple of informal ways to express the concept of a “survey”:
1. Polling
When in informal settings or conversations, using “polling” is a natural and less formal term. It refers to the act of conducting a survey or gathering opinions. For example:
“We’ve been polling our customers to improve our service quality.”
2. Feedback Form
An informal way to refer to a survey is to call it a “feedback form.” This term is often used when seeking opinions or suggestions from customers or a specific group of individuals. For instance:
“Please fill out the feedback form to help us enhance our user experience.”
Regional Variations
While the terms described above are widely understood globally, there may be some regional variations. Let’s take a look at a few examples:
American English
In American English, survey, poll, or questionnaire are commonly used terms to express the concept, whether in formal or informal contexts. Regional variations within the United States are generally minimal.
British English
In British English, survey and questionnaire are commonly used in both formal and informal situations. However, “poll” is mostly associated with political surveys or elections.
Tips for Conducting a Successful Survey
1. Define Clear Objectives
Before conducting a survey, it’s crucial to define clear objectives. Ask yourself what information or data you hope to gather from the survey. This will help you design effective questions.
2. Use Simple and Precise Language
Avoid using complicated jargon or technical terms that may confuse respondents. Your survey’s questions and instructions should be clear and concise, ensuring that participants understand them easily.
3. Provide Balanced Response Options
When offering response options, make sure they cover a range of possibilities without bias. Include options such as “neutral” or “undecided” to account for respondents who may not have a strong opinion or preference.
4. Test the Survey
Prior to launching your survey, it’s essential to test it with a small group of participants. This helps identify any flaws or confusion in the questions, guaranteeing a smoother experience for a larger audience.
Examples:
To illustrate the usage of these terms, here are a few examples:
- “We conducted a poll to gather opinions on the new marketing campaign.”
- “Please complete the questionnaire to help us improve our customer service.”
- “We’ve been polling students to understand their preferences for extracurricular activities.”
- “Kindly fill out the feedback form to let us know how we can enhance our product.”
Remember, using the appropriate term for your survey depends on the context, formality, and region you are in. Identifying your target audience and the purpose of your survey will guide you in choosing the best term to use.
Now that you know the various formal and informal ways to say “survey,” as well as some regional variations, you are well-equipped to communicate your intentions effectively. Good luck with your future surveys!
