When writing in a formal style, which of the following is discouraged?

In formal writing, the use of contractions is typically discouraged. Contractions, such as "can't," "won't," or "it's," create an informal tone that may not be suitable for academic, professional, or official documents. Formal writing aims to convey information clearly and respectfully, often requiring a more serious tone that contractions do not support. By avoiding contractions, the writer maintains a level of formality and professionalism that aligns with the expectations of formal communication.

The other options, such as using formal terminology, complex sentences, or technical jargon, can enhance the clarity and specificity of the writing when appropriately used. Formal terminology helps convey precise meaning, complex sentences can effectively articulate nuanced ideas, and technical jargon, while potentially exclusionary if misused, can be necessary in contexts where precision and expertise are essential.