While there has been much interest in the differences between oral and written language styles, studies have focused on the relative use of certain features. Little attention has been paid to the cultural value given to language style in languages with a literary tradition versus value given to style in those with a non-literary traditions. All translators, whether native speakers or not, must gear their translations to the specific audience of the passage, not by *Expressive Language; Language Skills; audience. Twenty-four references are listed. (MSE)