informally
UK: ɪnˈfɔːməli | US: ɪnˈfɔːrməli
adv. in a casual or relaxed manner, without strict adherence to formal rules
adv. (of language or behavior) not following official or conventional standards
The word "informally" combines the negative prefix "in-" (from Latin, meaning "not") with "formal" (derived from Latin "formalis," relating to form or structure) and the adverbial suffix "-ly" (from Old English "-lice," used to form adverbs). The progression reflects a shift from structured ("formal") to unstructured ("not formal") behavior or language, with "-ly" converting the adjective into an adverb. This mirrors the broader linguistic trend of creating nuanced adverbs by combining roots with "-ly."
She dressed informally for the picnic, wearing jeans and a t-shirt.
The meeting was conducted informally, with no agenda or minutes.
He spoke informally to the team, using slang and jokes.
The document was written informally, with contractions and colloquial phrases.
They greeted each other informally, with a hug instead of a handshake.