The Internet is chockfull of well-meaning people -I would like to think-, mostly natives, who insist on telling readers what in English or Spanish is "informal" or "formal". They disregard the complexities of language, society, and culture. But these self-appointed, latter-day language gurus love to pontificate about what they consider appropriate. "If you want to sound more like a native, don´t say how are you, say hija." To pass off as a native speaker, don´t say, mister Smith , say, Mac, or you." They insist that using "madam" when addressing a woman is old fashioned and stilted. According to them, the word "sir" came into disuse decades ago, and nowadays "I´m good" has definitely replaced "I am well." Again, it is all a question of age, education mores, context, and social standing. This a thin line that foreign students cannot tread without perhaps falling into the abyss of bad manners and thus rejection. So, please, beware of those who tell you: "Don´t say this, say this." Stop, consider, and do some research.
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