nieformalny

Nieformalny is a Polish adjective meaning not formal or informal. It describes things that do not adhere to formal rules, ceremonies, or etiquette, or a style characterized by informality. The term is widely used across domains such as language, attire, meetings, and organizational contexts.

In linguistic and social usage, nieformalny often refers to a register or style of communication. Język nieformalny (informal language) favors colloquialisms, simpler syntax, and the avoidance of formal address forms. This contrasts with the formalny style, which relies on standard language, explicit politeness, and formality in pronouns and titles. Nieformalny can also describe attire, for example strój nieformalny (casual wear) appropriate for everyday settings rather than official events. Similarly, nieformalne spotkania are meetings without formal protocols or ceremonial procedures, and nieformalne porozumienie denotes an informal agreement lacking official documentation.

The word is formed by attaching the negating prefix nie- to formalny (formal). It is used neutrally, but the connotations of informality can be positive or negative depending on context. In sociolinguistics, the distinction between język formalny and język nieformalny helps describe how language use varies with social context, power relations, and cultural norms. Beyond language, nieformalny also characterizes processes, networks, or groups operating outside official structures, without formal authority or recognition. The related noun is nieformalność, and the adverb is nieformalnie.