informal
Loading your saved state.
informal
Not bound by fixed rules, forms, or official regulations; relaxed, casual, and personal. The opposite of formal.
Nach der Konferenz gab es ein informelles Treffen in einer Bar.
After the conference, there was an informal meeting in a bar.
The word is the opposite of 'formell' (formal). The prefix 'in-' here means 'not', similar to many international words (e.g. 'in-aktiv' (inactive), 'in-direkt' (indirect)). If you know 'formell' (formal), you can easily understand 'informell' (informal).
Die Kleiderordnung für die Party ist informell.
The dress code for the party is informal.
'Informell' (informal) is often used to describe a certain type of social interaction or atmosphere. Typical combinations are: 'ein informelles Gespräch' (an informal conversation), 'ein informelles Treffen' (an informal meeting), 'eine informelle Atmosphäre' (an informal atmosphere), or 'informelle Kleidung' (informal clothing).
Wir trafen uns zu einem informellen Gespräch im Café.
We met for an informal conversation at the café.
'Informell' (informally) can also be used as an adverb to describe how an action is carried out. It then usually comes after the verb.
Wir können uns gerne informell austauschen, bevor wir eine offizielle Sitzung ansetzen.
We can gladly exchange ideas informally before we schedule an official meeting.
loose / relaxed
Both words can describe a situation that is not stiff or overly formal. „Locker“ mainly emphasizes a relaxed manner and atmosphere, while „informell“ refers to the absence of a formal setting. Use „locker“ for the behavior of the people involved and „informell“ for the format of a meeting or conversation.
Das Gespräch mit der Chefin war informell und ohne feste Tagesordnung.
The conversation with the boss was informal and had no fixed agenda.
Die Chefin führte das Gespräch locker und persönlich.
The boss conducted the conversation in a relaxed and personal manner.
