Contraction of "Will"

Question

When is it not appropriate to contract "will"? For example:

I'm leaving for vacation tomorrow. My role at work will be filled by Sam. I know you'll miss me.

Should you not contract "you'll" because the other "will" is not? Or, don't contract "I'm" so there are no contractions?

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

It has nothing to do with the other 'will', but it is related to 'I'm'.  Contracted forms are informal.   They are used in conversation and informal writing.

CalifJim · Answer

ScullyWhen is it not appropriate to contract "will"?

Theoretically, you can always contract will to 'll, but the more contractions you use, the lower the register. (Register goes from high to low -- from very formal to very slang-filled.)

For a high to middle register, contract only with subject pronouns: I'll, you'll, he'll, etc.
For a bit lower register, add contractions with first names: Jane'll, Mike'll, etc.
For an even lower register, add contractions with any subject noun phrase, including inanimates: The teachers'll, The goverment'll, This type of work'll, ....

In writing, I'd recommend only the highest register. The highest level of writing uses no contractions at all, but it is not always necessary or even desirable to write in such a high register unless your text must be very formal.

Personally, in conversation, I almost always use the high register (I'll, you'll, etc., as described above), and occasionally the middle register.

CJ

Contraction of "Will"

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