1. Purpose and Audience:
* Letter: Primarily serves a personal or specific purpose. It's a direct form of communication between individuals or organizations. The audience is usually known and limited (one person, a small group, or an organization). The purpose might be to inform, persuade, request, complain, or simply share news.
* Article: Aims to inform, persuade, or entertain a broader, often unknown audience. It's intended for publication in a newspaper, magazine, journal, or online platform. The purpose is usually to share information, explore an issue, present an argument, or offer analysis on a topic of general interest.
2. Style and Tone:
* Letter: Style can vary greatly depending on the relationship between the writer and recipient (formal, informal, friendly, demanding). The tone is often more personal and subjective, reflecting the writer's individual voice and perspective.
* Article: Style is generally more formal and objective, aiming for clarity and accuracy. The tone is less personal and usually avoids strong opinions or emotional language unless the article's purpose explicitly calls for it (e.g., an opinion piece). It strives for neutrality and avoids bias.
3. Structure and Format:
* Letter: Follows a specific format, typically including a salutation, body, closing, and signature. Structure is less rigid; it can be conversational and follow a natural flow of thought.
* Article: Has a more structured format, often including a headline, introduction, body paragraphs (organized thematically or chronologically), and a conclusion. The structure is carefully planned to present information logically and effectively. Articles often use subheadings and visuals to aid comprehension.
4. Length and Detail:
* Letter: Can vary in length considerably, but generally shorter than an article. Level of detail is often determined by the relationship and the purpose of the letter.
* Article: Usually longer and more detailed than a letter. The depth of information is a key factor, providing sufficient context and evidence to support the main points.
5. Publication and Distribution:
* Letter: Typically sent directly to the recipient. It might be a physical letter or an email.
* Article: Intended for publication and distribution to a wide audience through a specific medium (print, online, etc.).
In short, a letter is a personal, direct communication, while an article is a public, formally structured piece of writing intended for a broader audience. Their purposes, styles, and formats are tailored to their distinct roles in communication.