When it comes to saying dates, whether in a formal or informal context, it’s important to choose the right words and follow the appropriate etiquette. In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to express dates, provide examples, and offer tips based on formal and informal settings. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Dates
When discussing dates in formal situations such as business meetings, official documents, or academic settings, it’s crucial to follow a specific structure. Here are some tips to help you properly express dates in a formal manner:
- Using the ordinal numbers: When stating the day, use ordinal numbers such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and so on. For example, “The meeting will take place on the 15th of January.”
- Mentioning the month: Always include the month after the day, preceded by “of.” For instance, “The deadline for submissions is March 21st.”
- Adding the year: When mentioning the year, use ordinal numbers and separate it with a comma. For example, “The conference will be held on November 3rd, 2022.”
- Using complete spellings: Avoid using abbreviations in formal situations. Instead, spell out the entire month and use a 4-digit year. For example, “The event is scheduled for August 10th, 2023.”
Now, let’s take a look at some formal date examples:
The seminar is scheduled for the 19th of September, 2022.
Please submit your report by March 28th.
The contract will expire on October 5th, 2023.
When communicating informally, there is usually more flexibility in expressing dates. Let’s explore some commonly used approaches:
Informal Ways to Say Dates
When talking casually or in everyday situations, you can be more flexible with how you express dates. Here are some tips for informal contexts:
- Dropping the ordinal numbers: In informal conversations, it’s common to omit the ordinal numbers. Instead of saying “September 15th,” you can simply say “September 15.”
- Reversing the month and day: In some English-speaking regions, it’s customary to reverse the order of the month and day when speaking informally. For instance, “July 4th” becomes “4th of July” or even “the 4th of July.”
- Using numerical dates: Another informal approach is to use numerical dates without mentioning the month. For example, you can say “I’ll meet you on 12/3,” referring to December 3rd.
- Using common abbreviations: In informal writing, you can use common abbreviations for months such as Jan., Feb., Mar., Apr., etc., followed by the day and optionally the year. For example, “This event will take place on Mar. 10th.”
Now, let’s see some examples of informal date expressions:
Let’s grab lunch on July 24.
The concert is on 12/31, don’t forget your ticket!
We should celebrate on the 4th of July with a barbecue.
Regional Variations in Saying Dates
While the aforementioned guidelines cover the general rules for expressing dates, it’s worth noting that certain regions may have specific variations. Here are a few examples:
- British English: In British English, the day usually comes before the month, unlike American English. For example, “6th of July” instead of “July 6th.”
- Australian English: Similar to British English, Australians typically follow the day-month-year format. Hence, “13th August 2023” instead of “August 13th, 2023.”
Remember, when communicating across regions or with someone from a different cultural background, it’s essential to be aware of their preferred date format.
Wrapping Up
Being able to articulate dates correctly is crucial in both formal and informal contexts. The details and structure may vary depending on the setting or region, so it’s important to adapt accordingly. Remember to use the appropriate ordinal numbers, include the month, and consider any regional variations. Whether you’re scheduling meetings, meeting friends, or writing reports, these guidelines will help ensure clear communication when discussing dates.
