Should the pronoun "I" really be used in formal English?

I don't see why not (as a subject, of course). What else would you use?

Dear sir,

It is a most interesting question.

It is my opinion that you may use the subject pronoun «I» only to de

i do not know.

sam

Hi,

Should the pronoun "I" really be used in formal English?

It seems like an odd question. I wonder if you are thinking about formal essay writing? 'I' should be avoided here, and everything should be in the third person, although I find that this 'rule' is not being taught today in high school as much.

Best wishes, Clive

PieanneI don't see why not (as a subject, of course). What else would you use?

Of course, one could.

Could one ask you for some examples of the formal English you are thinking of, Anon?

PieanneOf course, one could.

Could one ask you for some examples of the formal English you are thinking of, Anon?

Things like, formal business letters, lawyer reports and contracts, diplomats' speeches, and academic papers.

On second reading, I'm not sure, Anon... "One" involves more than the person who's talking, in my opinion. It's more a synonym of "we", or "everybody". It's mostly used in proverbs or maxims, and sounds rather pontificating.

One doesn't replace I as the meanings are different.

I know Prince Charles tends to refer to himself as one but the Royal family are a bit nuts really, after all, the Queen gets to replace I with 'we' all the time.

One doesn't apply to a specific person - think of anyone, someone, everyone.

PieanneOn second reading, I'm not sure, Anon... "One" involves more than the person who's talking, in my opinion. It's more a synonym of "we", or "everybody". It's mostly used in proverbs or maxims, and sounds rather pontificating.

PRONOUN:

1. An indefinitely