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informalmente

A2 adverb 11 min read

informalmente

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips informalmente in 30 Seconds

Explanation informalmente in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe basic actions. 'Informalmente' is a long word, but it is easy to understand because it looks like the English word 'informally'. At this stage, you should focus on using it with simple verbs like 'hablar' (to speak) or 'comer' (to eat).

Think of it as a way to say that you are not in a classroom or a formal office. For example, 'Hablo informalmente con mi familia' (I speak informally with my family). You are using the word to describe a relaxed situation. Even if you don't use the word yourself yet, recognizing it will help you understand when a teacher or a friend is telling you that the rules are relaxed.

Remember that in Spanish, we have two ways to say 'you': 'tú' (informal) and 'usted' (formal). When you speak 'informalmente', you almost always use 'tú'. This is the most important thing for an A1 learner to remember about this word.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'informalmente' to describe social situations and daily routines. You might use it to describe how people dress or how a small party is organized. For example, 'Me gusta vestir informalmente los fines de semana' (I like to dress informally on weekends).

You will also see this word in simple readings about culture or social life. It helps you distinguish between 'la vida formal' (work, school, ceremonies) and 'la vida informal' (friends, family, hobbies). At this level, you should be able to place the adverb correctly after the verb.

Try to use it when you are talking about your plans. 'Vamos a reunirnos informalmente en el parque' (We are going to meet informally in the park). This shows that you understand the difference between a planned meeting and a casual get-together.

As a B1 learner, you can use 'informalmente' to add nuance to your professional and social interactions. You are now able to describe more complex situations, such as a business conversation that isn't official yet. 'Hablamos informalmente sobre el nuevo trabajo' (We spoke informally about the new job).

At this level, you should also be aware of the synonyms. Instead of always saying 'informalmente', you might say 'de forma informal' or 'de manera casual'. This makes your Spanish sound more varied. You can also use it to explain why you used a certain word: 'Usé esa palabra porque estábamos hablando informalmente'.

You will also encounter 'informalmente' in more diverse contexts, such as news reports or articles about the economy ('el sector que trabaja informalmente'). Understanding this broader social context is a key part of reaching the B1 level.

At the B2 level, you should understand the subtle social implications of 'informalmente'. It's not just about 'casual' vs. 'formal'; it's about the level of 'confianza' (trust) and the specific social protocols of different Spanish-speaking regions. You can use the word to describe the atmosphere of a whole event or the strategy of a negotiation.

For instance, you might discuss how a leader uses an 'informalmente' approach to build rapport with their team. 'El gerente prefiere gestionar el equipo informalmente para fomentar la creatividad'. You can also use it in writing to contrast different styles of communication or organization.

At this stage, you should also be comfortable using it in the 'extraoficial' sense—describing things that are happening 'behind the scenes'. This is common in political or academic discussions where the 'informal' channels are often as important as the formal ones.

For C1 learners, 'informalmente' becomes a tool for precise socio-linguistic analysis. You can discuss the 'economía informal' in depth, or how 'informalmente' established norms can sometimes override formal laws in certain communities. Your use of the word should reflect an understanding of its weight in different registers.

You might use it to critique a piece of literature or a film, noting how characters interact 'informalmente' to reveal their true selves, contrasting with their 'formal' public personas. Your vocabulary should also include more sophisticated alternatives like 'extraoficialmente', 'al margen de la ley', or 'en un entorno distendido'.

In professional writing, you can use 'informalmente' to describe preliminary stages of a project or a 'gentleman's agreement'. 'Aunque el contrato no se ha firmado, las partes han llegado a un entendimiento informalmente'. This shows a high level of linguistic control.

At the C2 level, you possess a near-native grasp of the word's connotations. You can use 'informalmente' to navigate the most delicate social and professional situations. You understand that in some cultures, acting 'informalmente' is a sophisticated power move, while in others, it is a necessary part of social cohesion.

You can use the word in complex academic or legal contexts, perhaps discussing the 'derecho informal' (informal law) or the 'redes de poder que operan informalmente' (power networks that operate informally). Your usage is flawless, and you can switch between this adverb and its many synonyms to suit the exact tone of your discourse.

Furthermore, you can appreciate the irony or humor when someone uses 'informalmente' in a strictly formal setting. Your understanding of the word is no longer just about its definition, but about its role in the complex tapestry of Spanish-speaking societies.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

informalmente in 30 Seconds

Informalmente is a common Spanish adverb meaning 'informally' or 'casually'. It is used to describe actions done without strict rules or official protocols.
It is a direct cognate of the English word, making it easy for English speakers to recognize and use in various social and professional settings.
Commonly paired with verbs like 'hablar' (to speak), 'vestir' (to dress), and 'reunirse' (to meet) to indicate a relaxed atmosphere or style.
In cultural terms, it often signals the use of 'tú' and a shift toward 'confianza' (trust and intimacy) between the people involved in the action.

The Spanish adverb informalmente is a direct cognate of the English word 'informally'. It is used to describe actions performed without adherence to strict rules, official protocols, or conventional ceremonies. In the Spanish-speaking world, where social hierarchies and levels of formality (the distinction between tú and usted) are deeply embedded in the language, this word carries significant weight. It signals a shift from the rigid structures of professional or ceremonial life into a more relaxed, personal, or casual sphere. You will encounter this word in contexts ranging from dress codes and social gatherings to diplomatic negotiations that occur 'off the record'.

Social Register: This word describes a lack of 'etiqueta' or 'protocolo'. When you speak to someone informalmente, you are likely using the 'tú' form and perhaps employing regional slang or colloquialisms that would be inappropriate in a boardroom or a courtroom.

Nos reunimos informalmente para discutir el proyecto antes de la presentación oficial.

The word is composed of the prefix 'in-' (not), the root 'formal' (related to form or ceremony), and the suffix '-mente', which is the Spanish equivalent of the English suffix '-ly'. Understanding this structure helps learners recognize that 'informalmente' modifies verbs, telling us how something is being done. For instance, 'vestir informalmente' doesn't just mean wearing casual clothes; it means the act of dressing in a way that ignores formal requirements. In Latin American cultures, where 'la cortesía' (courtesy) is paramount, acting 'informalmente' can sometimes be a deliberate choice to build rapport and 'romper el hielo' (break the ice).

Professional Context: In a business setting, saying 'vamos a hablar informalmente' suggests that the conversation is not binding, that ideas can be shared freely without the fear of official documentation, or that the participants are stepping outside their hierarchical roles.

Ella siempre se viste informalmente los viernes para ir a la oficina.

Furthermore, the concept of being 'informal' in Spanish-speaking countries can vary. In some Caribbean cultures, 'informalmente' might imply a very high degree of relaxation, whereas in the central highlands of Mexico or the Andean regions, even an 'informal' gathering might still maintain a level of linguistic politeness that would seem formal to an American English speaker. Therefore, using the adverb 'informalmente' often serves as a verbal permission slip for everyone involved to relax their posture and their language.

El embajador saludó a los invitados informalmente en el jardín.

Linguistic Precision: Because it ends in -mente, it is an adverb of manner. It answers the question '¿Cómo?' (How?). How did they talk? Informalmente. How were they dressed? Informalmente.

Tratamos el asunto informalmente durante el almuerzo.

Aunque no hay contrato, ellos acordaron los términos informalmente.

Using informalmente correctly involves understanding its placement and the verbs it typically modifies. As an adverb, its primary job is to provide detail about the action of the verb. In Spanish, adverbs like 'informalmente' usually follow the verb they modify, although they can occasionally appear at the beginning or end of a sentence for emphasis. When you use it, you are effectively setting the 'vibe' of the action. Whether you are describing a conversation, a style of dress, or a method of organization, 'informalmente' suggests a lack of rigid boundaries.

Verbal Pairing: Hablar: The most common use is with 'hablar' (to speak). This indicates the use of the second person singular 'tú' and a more relaxed vocabulary. Example: 'Prefiero que hablemos informalmente'.

Los estudiantes se saludaron informalmente en el pasillo.

Another frequent pairing is with 'vestir' or 'vestirse' (to dress). In many Spanish-speaking countries, social events often come with an implied dress code. If an invitation says 'pueden venir vestidos informalmente', it means you can leave the suit and tie at home. However, 'informalmente' in a Spanish context might still be more polished than a 'casual' dress code in the United States. It usually implies 'business casual' or 'smart casual' rather than 'gym clothes'.

Verbal Pairing: Organizar: When something is organized 'informalmente', it means there was no official planning committee or formal agenda. It was likely done through word of mouth or a quick group chat.

Organizaron la fiesta informalmente por WhatsApp.

In legal or professional contexts, 'informalmente' can describe agreements that are not yet notarized or signed. 'Llegaron a un acuerdo informalmente' means they have a 'gentleman's agreement' or a verbal pact. This is a crucial distinction in Spanish law and business, as a formal agreement ('formalmente') carries much more legal weight. Using 'informalmente' allows parties to explore options without committing to a final, legally binding contract.

El jefe nos pidió que trabajáramos informalmente en el nuevo diseño.

Verbal Pairing: Actuar: To act 'informalmente' means to behave in a way that is relaxed and perhaps slightly unconventional for the setting. It can be a sign of confidence or a way to put others at ease.

A pesar de ser el director, él siempre actúa informalmente con su equipo.

¿Podemos discutir esto informalmente después de la clase?

You will hear informalmente in a variety of real-world scenarios. In the workplace, it is common during transitions—moving from a formal meeting to a coffee break. A colleague might say, 'Vamos a charlar un poco más informalmente', indicating that the official part of the meeting is over and you can now share more honest or less polished opinions. This is a key part of building 'confianza' (trust) in Spanish-speaking professional environments.

In the Media: News anchors often use this word when describing diplomatic encounters. 'Los presidentes se reunieron informalmente en los márgenes de la cumbre'. This means they had a 'sideline' meeting that wasn't on the official schedule.

La noticia se difundió informalmente por las redes sociales.

In social invitations, especially via text or apps like WhatsApp, the concept of 'informalmente' is omnipresent. An invitation might read, 'Nos vemos en mi casa para cenar algo informalmente'. This tells the guests that they don't need to bring a fancy gift or wear formal attire; it's a casual get-together focused on comfort and friendship. In Spain, this might mean going out for 'cañas' (small beers) and 'tapas' where the flow of people and conversation is fluid and, by definition, 'informal'.

Educational Settings: Teachers often use this word to describe study groups or peer-to-peer learning. 'Pueden repasar los conceptos informalmente entre ustedes'. It encourages a low-pressure environment for learning.

El profesor nos explicó el tema informalmente en la cafetería.

Another place you'll encounter this is in the 'mercado informal' (informal market). While 'informalmente' is the adverb, it relates to the massive sector of the economy in many Spanish-speaking countries where business is conducted without official registration or taxes. When people say they are working 'informalmente', they mean they are part of this 'gig economy' or street-vending culture. It is a vital, if unofficial, part of the social and economic fabric.

Muchos jóvenes empiezan a trabajar informalmente vendiendo artesanías.

Creative Arts: Artists and musicians often collaborate 'informalmente' before they ever book a studio or a gallery. These 'jam sessions' or 'tertulias' (social gatherings for literary or artistic discussion) are the quintessential examples of acting informalmente.

Los músicos practicaron informalmente en el garaje.

El autor firmó libros informalmente después de la charla.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with informalmente is confusing it with the adjective 'informal'. Remember that 'informalmente' is an adverb; it describes how an action is done. You cannot say 'La fiesta es informalmente' (The party is informally). Instead, you must say 'La fiesta es informal' (The party is informal). Use the adverb when there is a verb to modify, such as 'La fiesta se organizó informalmente' (The party was organized informally).

Mistake: Adjective vs. Adverb: Incorrect: 'Él es un hombre informalmente'. Correct: 'Él es un hombre informal' or 'Él se comporta informalmente'.

No digas 'el vestido es informalmente'; di 'ella se viste informalmente'.

Another common error is misinterpreting the cultural meaning of 'informalmente'. In some English-speaking cultures, 'informally' might imply a lack of respect or carelessness. In Spanish, however, acting 'informalmente' is often a sign of closeness and intimacy. If you are too 'formal' with close friends, it can actually be seen as cold or distancing. The mistake here is not a grammatical one, but a social one: failing to switch to an 'informalmente' mode when the situation calls for it.

Mistake: Placement in Sentence: While Spanish is flexible, putting 'informalmente' too far from the verb can make the sentence confusing. Avoid: 'Informalmente nosotros en la casa hablamos'. Better: 'Hablamos informalmente en la casa'.

Es mejor decir 'Nos reunimos informalmente' que poner el adverbio al principio.

Lastly, be careful with the spelling. Many learners forget the second 'l' or the 'e' before the suffix. Since 'informal' ends in a consonant, you simply add '-mente'. There is no need for an accent mark on 'informalmente' because 'informal' is an 'aguda' word (stressed on the last syllable) and the addition of '-mente' shifts the primary stress but doesn't require a written tilde according to modern Spanish rules.

Spelling Error: Incorrect: 'informalamente' or 'informalment'. Correct: 'informalmente'. Make sure to pronounce every syllable: in-for-mal-men-te.

Asegúrate de escribir informalmente con todas sus letras.

No confundas actuar informalmente con ser irresponsable.

While informalmente is a very useful word, Spanish offers several synonyms and phrases that can add variety to your speech or fit specific contexts better. Depending on whether you want to emphasize the lack of ceremony, the closeness of the relationship, or the unofficial nature of the event, you might choose a different expression. Using these alternatives will make your Spanish sound more natural and less like a translated textbook.

Alternative: De manera informal: This is the most direct synonym. It is slightly more common in spoken Spanish as it avoids the long '-mente' ending. Example: 'Nos saludamos de manera informal'.

En vez de decir informalmente, puedes decir 'de forma casual'.

If you are talking about a social setting with friends, you might use 'entre amigos' or 'en confianza'. These phrases capture the essence of 'informalmente' but highlight the personal relationship involved. 'Hablamos en confianza' implies that the conversation was informal because of the trust between the speakers. Similarly, 'sin protocolos' is used in more official settings to indicate that the usual rules of etiquette are being set aside for a moment.

Comparison: Informalmente vs. Extraoficialmente: 'Extraoficialmente' (unofficially) is more specific to news and politics. While an informal meeting might be extraoficial, 'extraoficialmente' specifically means it hasn't been confirmed by an authority.

Lo acordamos informalmente, pero todavía no es oficial.

For dress codes, you might hear 'de sport' (pronounced like the English word 'sport' but used as a phrase). In many countries, 'vestir de sport' is the standard way to say 'vestir informalmente'. Another common phrase is 'de calle', which means wearing everyday clothes rather than a uniform or formal wear. If someone tells you 'ven de calle', they are telling you to dress 'informalmente'.

Comparison: Informalmente vs. Coloquialmente: 'Coloquialmente' refers specifically to language. You speak 'informalmente' in a broad sense, but you use certain words 'coloquialmente' (colloquially).

Esa expresión se usa informalmente en conversaciones diarias.

La cena fue muy relajada, nos tratamos informalmente.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The suffix '-mente' actually comes from the Latin word 'mens, mentis', meaning 'mind'. So 'informalmente' literally meant 'with an informal mind'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɪn.fɔː.məlˈmen.te/

US /ɪn.fɔːr.məlˈmen.te/

The primary stress is on the penultimate syllable 'men', and a secondary stress on the 'for'.

Rhymes With

totalmente finalmente realmente igualmente actualmente claramente rápidamente solamente

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'mente' like the English word 'mint'. It should be 'men-te'.
Skipping the 'l' in the middle: 'informamente'.
Putting the stress on the wrong syllable, like 'in-FOR-mal-mente'.
Adding an 'a' after the 'l': 'informalamente'.
Pronouncing the 'i' like 'ee' in 'seen' too strongly; it should be a crisp Spanish 'i'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'informally'.

Writing 2/5

The length of the word can lead to minor spelling errors.

Speaking 2/5

Requires clear pronunciation of all five syllables.

Listening 1/5

Easy to catch in a sentence because of its distinct rhythm.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Formal Mente Hablar Vestir Tú/Usted

Learn Next

Totalmente Especialmente Protocolo Etiqueta Confianza

Advanced

Extraoficialmente Coloquialmente Espontáneamente Improvisadamente

Grammar to Know

Adverb Formation with -mente

Informal + mente = Informalmente. Added to the feminine form of adjectives (if applicable).

Adverb Placement

Usually follows the verb: 'Él camina informalmente'.

Stress in -mente adverbs

They have two stressed syllables: one on the original adjective and one on 'men'.

No Gender/Number Agreement

Las niñas hablan informalmente (not informalmentes).

Adverbial Phrases

'De manera informal' is a common alternative to 'informalmente'.

Examples by Level

Hablamos informalmente en la clase.

We speak informally in class.

Adverb follows the verb.

Yo como informalmente con mis amigos.

I eat informally with my friends.

Present tense usage.

Ellos saludan informalmente.

They greet informally.

Simple subject-verb-adverb structure.

Tú vistes informalmente hoy.

You are dressing informally today.

Using 'tú' matches the 'informal' vibe.

Nosotros jugamos informalmente.

We play informally.

Emphasis on lack of rules.

Ella escribe informalmente en su diario.

She writes informally in her diary.

Adverb modifying 'escribe'.

¿Podemos hablar informalmente?

Can we speak informally?

Question form.

Él vive informalmente.

He lives informally.

Describing a lifestyle.

Ayer nos reunimos informalmente para tomar un café.

Yesterday we met informally for a coffee.

Preterite tense.

Prefiero vestir informalmente para ir al cine.

I prefer to dress informally to go to the movies.

Infinitive after 'prefiero'.

Ellos organizaron la cena informalmente.

They organized the dinner informally.

Past tense 'organizaron'.

Hablamos informalmente sobre nuestras vacaciones.

We spoke informally about our vacations.

Preterite 'hablamos'.

Puedes saludar informalmente a mis padres.

You can greet my parents informally.

Permission with 'puedes'.

El profesor nos explicó el examen informalmente.

The teacher explained the exam to us informally.

Indirect object 'nos'.

Siempre celebramos los cumpleaños informalmente.

We always celebrate birthdays informally.

Adverb of frequency 'siempre'.

Ella trabaja informalmente desde su casa.

She works informally from her house.

Present tense.

Discutimos el presupuesto informalmente antes de la reunión.

We discussed the budget informally before the meeting.

Professional context.

Se enviaron los detalles informalmente por correo electrónico.

The details were sent informally by email.

Passive 'se'.

El grupo de estudio se reúne informalmente cada martes.

The study group meets informally every Tuesday.

Reflexive 'se reúne'.

Me sentí más cómodo hablando informalmente con el jefe.

I felt more comfortable speaking informally with the boss.

Gerund 'hablando'.

Acordaron el precio informalmente con un apretón de manos.

They agreed on the price informally with a handshake.

Verbal agreement.

El evento fue anunciado informalmente por los vecinos.

The event was announced informally by the neighbors.

Passive voice.

Suelen vestir informalmente en esta oficina.

They usually dress informally in this office.

Verb 'soler'.

Nos comunicamos informalmente durante el viaje.

We communicated informally during the trip.

Reflexive 'nos comunicamos'.

A pesar de la seriedad del asunto, lo trataron informalmente.

Despite the seriousness of the matter, they treated it informally.

Contrast with 'a pesar de'.

La noticia se filtró informalmente a la prensa.

The news was leaked informally to the press.

Passive 'se filtró'.

El embajador conversó informalmente con los periodistas.

The ambassador chatted informally with the journalists.

Nuance of 'conversar'.

Se espera que los líderes se reúnan informalmente mañana.

The leaders are expected to meet informally tomorrow.

Subjunctive 'se reúnan'.

Muchos negocios operan informalmente en la región.

Many businesses operate informally in the region.

Economic context.

Ella suele expresarse informalmente en sus redes sociales.

She usually expresses herself informally on her social networks.

Reflexive 'expresarse'.

El proyecto comenzó informalmente como un pasatiempo.

The project began informally as a hobby.

Origin of an action.

Tratamos de resolver el conflicto informalmente.

We tried to resolve the conflict informally.

Conflict resolution.

Las negociaciones avanzaron informalmente fuera de la mesa oficial.

Negotiations progressed informally away from the official table.

Sophisticated context.

El autor se dirigió informalmente a su audiencia durante el seminario.

The author addressed his audience informally during the seminar.

Reflexive 'se dirigió'.

Se ha constatado que el virus se propagó informalmente en reuniones familiares.

It has been noted that the virus spread informally in family gatherings.

Passive 'se ha constatado'.

El conocimiento se transmite informalmente de generación en generación.

Knowledge is transmitted informally from generation to generation.

Sociological context.

Aunque no hubo invitación, se presentó informalmente en la gala.

Although there was no invitation, he showed up informally at the gala.

Concessive 'aunque'.

La estructura de la empresa permite que los empleados colaboren informalmente.

The company structure allows employees to collaborate informally.

Subjunctive 'colaboren'.

El acuerdo fue ratificado informalmente por los jefes de estado.

The agreement was informally ratified by the heads of state.

Passive voice 'fue ratificado'.

Ella maneja sus finanzas informalmente, sin mucho rigor.

She manages her finances informally, without much rigor.

Nuance of 'rigor'.

La red de espionaje operaba informalmente bajo la apariencia de una ONG.

The spy network operated informally under the guise of an NGO.

Literary/Complex context.

Se dice que las decisiones trascendentales se toman informalmente en los pasillos del poder.

It is said that momentous decisions are made informally in the corridors of power.

Impersonal 'se dice'.

El dialecto se ha ido configurando informalmente a través de los siglos.

The dialect has been taking shape informally through the centuries.

Progressive 'se ha ido configurando'.

A pesar de la jerarquía, el monarca solía departir informalmente con sus súbditos.

Despite the hierarchy, the monarch used to converse informally with his subjects.

Archaic/Formal verb 'departir'.

La ética del grupo se basa en normas establecidas informalmente por consenso.

The group's ethics are based on norms established informally by consensus.

Philosophical context.

El sistema educativo ha sido criticado por no reconocer lo aprendido informalmente.

The educational system has been criticized for not recognizing what is learned informally.

Passive 'ha sido criticado'.

Las fronteras, en la práctica, se cruzan informalmente todos los días.

The borders, in practice, are crossed informally every day.

Sociopolitical nuance.

El discurso fluyó informalmente, alejándose del guion preestablecido.

The speech flowed informally, moving away from the pre-established script.

Metaphorical use of 'fluir'.

Common Collocations

Hablar informalmente

Vestir informalmente

Reunirse informalmente

Acordar informalmente

Saludar informalmente

Organizar informalmente

Colaborar informalmente

Tratar informalmente

Trabajar informalmente

Aprender informalmente

Common Phrases

Hablar informalmente

— To speak without using formal titles or the 'usted' form. It implies a relaxed conversation.

Podemos hablar informalmente si te sientes más cómodo.

Vestirse informalmente

— To wear casual clothes like jeans and t-shirts instead of suits or formal dresses.

No te preocupes, todos vamos a vestirnos informalmente.

Reunión informal

— While 'informalmente' is an adverb, this related phrase refers to a casual meeting.

Tuvimos una reunión informal en la cocina.

Acuerdo informal

— A verbal agreement that hasn't been written down or legalized yet.

Llegamos a un acuerdo informal sobre el alquiler.

Sector informal

— Refers to the part of the economy that is not officially regulated or taxed.

El sector informal es muy grande en este país.

Trato informal

— Treating someone in a casual, friendly way rather than with formal distance.

El trato informal del jefe ayuda a reducir el estrés.

Ambiente informal

— A relaxed atmosphere where people feel free to be themselves.

El restaurante tiene un ambiente informal y acogedor.

Comunicación informal

— Communication that happens through unofficial channels like rumors or casual chats.

La comunicación informal es muy rápida en la oficina.

Educación informal

— Learning that happens outside of schools, such as through life experience or hobbies.

La educación informal es tan importante como la escuela.

Cena informal

— A dinner where the food and the setting are casual, not a multi-course formal event.

Hicimos una cena informal con pizza y refrescos.

Often Confused With

informalmente vs Informal

Informal is the adjective (The party is informal). Informalmente is the adverb (They met informally).

informalmente vs Información

Despite the similar start, 'información' means information and has nothing to do with being casual.

informalmente vs Anormalmente

Sounds similar but means 'abnormally'. Be careful with the prefix.

Idioms & Expressions

"Hablar de tú a tú"

— To speak as equals, without formal hierarchy. This is the essence of speaking informalmente.

Hablamos de tú a tú para resolver el problema.

Informal

"Estar en su salsa"

— To be in one's element, often used when someone is acting informalmente and feeling comfortable.

Él está en su salsa cuando habla informalmente con la gente.

Informal

"Romper el hielo"

— To break the ice, which often involves starting to talk informalmente to ease tension.

Empezó a contar chistes para romper el hielo informalmente.

Neutral

"Andar por casa"

— To be casual or ordinary, like acting or dressing informalmente as if one were at home.

Es una explicación muy de andar por casa (informal).

Colloquial

"Sin pelos en la lengua"

— To speak frankly, which is often done when speaking informalmente.

Habló informalmente y sin pelos en la lengua sobre el jefe.

Informal

"Hacer buenas migas"

— To get along well, often the result of interacting informalmente.

Hicieron buenas migas charlando informalmente.

Colloquial

"Ir al grano"

— To get to the point, common in informal conversations where formal pleasantries are skipped.

Hablemos informalmente e ir al grano.

Neutral

"Estar de relax"

— To be relaxing, synonymous with behaving informalmente.

Estamos de relax, hablando informalmente en la terraza.

Informal

"Ponerse cómodo"

— To make oneself comfortable, often the first step to acting informalmente.

Ponte cómodo y hablemos informalmente.

Neutral

"Pasar de todo"

— To not care about anything, an extreme version of being informal to the point of indifference.

Él pasa de todo y se viste informalmente hasta en las bodas.

Slang

Easily Confused

informalmente vs Casualmente

Both imply a lack of formality.

'Casualmente' means 'by chance' or 'coincidentally', while 'informalmente' means 'without ceremony'.

Nos vimos casualmente (by chance) vs. Nos vimos informalmente (without protocol).

informalmente vs Extraoficialmente

Both refer to things outside official rules.

'Extraoficialmente' is specific to news or facts not yet confirmed by authorities.

Se supo extraoficialmente que ganaron.

informalmente vs Coloquialmente

Both relate to casual settings.

'Coloquialmente' refers strictly to language and speech patterns.

Ella habla coloquialmente con sus amigos.

informalmente vs Sencillamente

Both describe a lack of complexity.

'Sencillamente' means 'simply', which can be formal or informal.

Él explicó el problema sencillamente.

informalmente vs Espontáneamente

Informal actions are often spontaneous.

'Espontáneamente' means 'without planning', while 'informalmente' means 'without formality'.

La gente empezó a cantar espontáneamente.

Sentence Patterns

Yo + [verbo] + informalmente.

Yo hablo informalmente.

[Verbo] + informalmente + con + [persona].

Ceno informalmente con mi hermano.

Es mejor + [infinitivo] + informalmente.

Es mejor discutirlo informalmente.

Aunque [situación], [verbo] + informalmente.

Aunque era una oficina, vestían informalmente.

Se + [verbo pasivo] + informalmente + que...

Se acordó informalmente que el precio bajaría.

La [sustantivo] + se desarrolla + informalmente + a través de...

La cultura se desarrolla informalmente a través del lenguaje.

Any

¿Podemos + [verbo] + informalmente?

¿Podemos hablar informalmente?

Any

No hace falta + [infinitivo] + formalmente, hazlo + informalmente.

No hace falta saludar formalmente, hazlo informalmente.

Word Family

Nouns

Informalidad (Informality)

Informalismo (Informalism - in art)

Verbs

Informalizar (To make informal)

Adjectives

Informal (Informal)

Informalizado (Informalized)

Forma

Formal

Formalidad

Formación

Conformar

How to Use It

frequency

Common in both daily speech and professional environments to define social boundaries.

Common Mistakes

La reunión es informalmente. → La reunión es informal.
You used an adverb where an adjective was needed. Adverbs modify verbs, not nouns.
Él vistes informalmente. → Él viste informalmente.
This is a verb conjugation error, but often happens when focusing too much on the long adverb.
Hablamos informalmente y rápidamente. → Hablamos informal y rápidamente.
When using two '-mente' adverbs together, only the last one keeps the suffix.
Informalamente → Informalmente
Don't add an extra 'a'. If the adjective ends in 'l', just add '-mente'.
Informalment → Informalmente
Don't forget the final 'e'. Spanish adverbs must end in '-mente'.

Tips

Adverb vs Adjective

Remember: Use 'informal' to describe a noun (una fiesta informal) and 'informalmente' to describe a verb (hablar informalmente).

The 'Tú' Invitation

If someone says 'podemos hablar informalmente', they are giving you permission to use 'tú'. It's a great way to build a closer relationship.

Five Syllables

Practice saying it slowly: in-for-mal-men-te. Each syllable should be clear. Don't rush it!

Synonym variety

To sound more natural, try using 'de forma casual' or 'en confianza' occasionally instead of always using 'informalmente'.

No Accent Mark

Don't be tempted to add a tilde. Adverbs from adjectives ending in consonants (like informal) don't have them.

Breaking the Ice

Use the phrase 'Hablemos informalmente' when you want to make a conversation more relaxed and honest.

Catch the Rhythm

Spanish adverbs ending in '-mente' have a specific musical 'da-da-da-DA-da' rhythm. Listen for it in podcasts!

Off the Record

In a professional context, 'informalmente' often means that what is said won't be in the official minutes of the meeting.

Smart Casual

In many Spanish cultures, 'vestir informalmente' still means looking neat. It's rarely as 'messy' as American casual.

English Cognate

Just remember 'Informal' + 'ly'. It's one of the easiest long words to remember in Spanish!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Informal' + 'mente'. Since 'mente' sounds like 'mind', imagine having an 'Informal Mind' while you dress or talk casually.

Visual Association

Imagine a person wearing a tuxedo jacket but with pajama pants underneath. They are acting 'informalmente' from the waist down.

Word Web

Casual Relajado Tú Amigos Jeans Charla Café Sin corbata

Challenge

Try to describe your morning routine using the word 'informalmente' at least three times. For example, how you eat breakfast or talk to your pet.

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin 'formalis' (relating to form) with the negative prefix 'in-' and the Spanish adverbial suffix '-mente'.

Original meaning: Not according to the prescribed form or ceremony.

Romance (Spanish), with Latin roots.

Cultural Context

Be careful not to confuse 'informalmente' with 'irresponsablemente'. While it means casual, in some business contexts, being too informal can be seen as a lack of professionalism.

English speakers often use 'informally' more broadly, whereas in Spanish, it specifically triggers the grammatical change from 'usted' to 'tú'.

The 'mercado informal' is a major theme in Latin American sociology and economics. Many 'tertulias' (literary circles) in 19th-century Madrid operated informalmente in cafes. The concept of 'casual Friday' is often translated as 'viernes informalmente' in corporate settings.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Professional/Business

Hablemos informalmente
Acuerdo informal
Reunión informal
Trato informal

Social Gatherings

Cena informal
Vestir informalmente
Quedar informalmente
Fiesta informal

Language Learning

Hablar informalmente
Uso informal
Expresión informal
Contexto informal

Economics

Trabajo informal
Mercado informal
Economía informal
Ventas informales

Diplomacy/Politics

Encuentro informal
Conversar informalmente
Canal informal
Contactos informales

Conversation Starters

"¿Prefieres que hablemos informalmente o prefieres el trato de usted?"

"¿En tu oficina suelen vestir informalmente los viernes?"

"¿Crees que es mejor organizar las fiestas informalmente o con mucha planificación?"

"¿Alguna vez has tenido una reunión de trabajo informalmente en un café?"

"¿Te sientes cómodo saludando informalmente a personas que acabas de conocer?"

Journal Prompts

Describe un día en el que decidiste vestir informalmente y cómo te sentiste.

Escribe sobre una conversación importante que tuviste informalmente con un amigo.

¿Cuáles son las ventajas y desventajas de trabajar informalmente desde casa?

Compara una situación formal con una situación en la que actuaste informalmente.

Reflexiona sobre cómo cambia tu lenguaje cuando hablas informalmente con tu familia.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

In some contexts, 'ser informal' can mean being unreliable. However, the adverb 'informalmente' almost always refers to the manner of an action (casual, without protocol) rather than a personality flaw. To say someone acts unreliably, it's better to use 'de manera irresponsable'.

Yes, very frequently! It describes 'off-the-record' meetings, casual dress codes (like Business Casual), and preliminary verbal agreements. It's a key word for navigating the social side of business in Spanish-speaking cultures.

No. In Spanish, adverbs ending in '-mente' only keep the accent if the original adjective had one (e.g., 'rápidamente' from 'rápida'). Since 'informal' does not have an accent, 'informalmente' doesn't either.

The direct opposite is 'formalmente'. Other opposites include 'oficialmente' (officially) and 'protocolariamente' (according to protocol).

It's pronounced 'MEN-te'. The 'e' at the end is short and crisp, like the 'e' in 'pet'. Do not let it sound like 'maint' or 'mint'.

Both are correct. 'Informalmente' is more concise and common in writing, while 'de manera informal' is very common in spoken Spanish because it's slightly easier to say.

Yes. 'Vestir informalmente' is the standard way to say someone is dressing casually. You might also see 'vestimenta informal' on an invitation.

Absolutely. Speaking 'informalmente' almost always implies using the 'tú' form and first names instead of titles like 'Señor' or 'Doctor'.

It refers to the 'informal economy'—jobs and businesses that aren't officially registered, taxed, or monitored by the government. People working in this sector are said to work 'informalmente'.

Yes, it is a very high-frequency word because it describes such a large part of social, professional, and economic life in the Spanish-speaking world.