Guide 14 / 200 6 swaps Formal register
Professional words for “tell”
Six verbs that raise "tell" into formal communication.
i · When it mattersTwo lines, no filler
"Tell" sounds personal and immediate. In memos, reports, and emails, prefer a verb that carries the formality — and names the kind of telling.
ii · The swaps6 ways
- 01Inform formal
formal notice of a fact
I'm writing to inform you of the schedule change.
- 02Notify formal
formal, often regulatory, notice
Notify affected customers within 72 hours.
- 03Advise formal
share information with the weight of counsel
Please be advised that the deadline has moved.
- 04Brief neutral
give a short, informative summary
The team briefed the board ahead of the vote.
- 05Communicate formal
formal channel or deliberate relay
We'll communicate the decision tomorrow.
- 06Apprise formal
keep someone informed — continuing
Keep counsel apprised of the negotiations.