Functional styles

Each style of the literary language makes use of a group of language means the interrelation of which is peculiar to the given style. It is the coordination of the language means and stylistic devices that shapes the distinctive features of each style, and not the language means or stylistic devices themselves. Each style can be recognized by one or more leading features, which are especially conspicuous. For instance, the use of special terminology is a lexical characteristic of the style of scientific prose, and one by which it can easily be recognized.

The definition of a functional style resembles very much the one given in the first chapter of the present manual.

A functional style can be defined as a system of coordinated, interrelated and interconditioned language means intended to fulfill a specific function of communication and aiming at a definite effect.

The English language has evolved a number of functional styles easily distinguishable one from another. They are not homogeneous and fall into several variants all having some central point of resemblance. Thus, I.R.Galperin distinguishes five classes:

1. The Belles-Lettres Style

1. Poetry;

2. Emotive Prose;

3. The Drama.

2. Publicistic Style

1. Oratory and Speeches;

2. The Essay;

3. Articles.

3. Newspapers

1. Brief News Items;

2. Headlines;

3. Advertisements and Announcements;

4) The Editorial.

4. Scientific Prose

5. Official Documents.