Which tone is recommended when addressing a friend or family member in an email?

Using a low-register tone is recommended when addressing a friend or family member in an email because it conveys warmth, familiarity, and approachability. This tone makes the communication feel personal and relaxed, which is typically preferred in casual or informal correspondence among friends and family. A low-register tone allows for the use of colloquialisms, humor, and informal language that can strengthen the connection between the sender and the recipient.

In contrast, a formal tone might create distance and may not resonate well in a personal context, as it is often reserved for professional or official communications. A high-register tone, which often involves elevated language and complex vocabulary, might also come off as overly serious and inappropriate for casual interactions. Similarly, a structurally complex tone could make the email feel cumbersome and detract from the simplicity and ease of conversation that is desired in personal communication.