Ending a letter in English may seem like a simple task, but it can be tricky to get it right. The way you sign off a letter can leave a lasting impression on the recipient, so it’s important to choose the right words. In this article, we’ll guide you through the dos and don’ts of ending a letter in English.
When you’re ending your letter, be sure to choose a letter closing that is appropriate to the topic of your letter and to your personal situation and relationship with the person you are writing to.
Common Ways to End a Letter in English
Formal Letter Closings
When writing a formal letter, it is important to use a polite and respectful tone. Here are some common ways to end a formal letter:
- Sincerely
- Yours truly
- Respectfully
- Best regards
- Kind regards
Informal Letter Closings
In informal letters, you can use a more relaxed tone. Here are some common ways to end an informal letter:
- Cheers
- Best
- Take care
- All the best
- Love
It is important to note that the closing you choose should match the tone of the letter and the relationship you have with the recipient.
How to End a Letter
- Thank you for your kindness and consideration
- Thinking the best for you
- Till then
- My beloved
- Till we meet again
- Toodles
- Truly
- Until we meet again
- Until next time
- Very truly yours
- Waiting for you
- Warm regards
- Warmest greetings to all
- Warmest Regards
- Wishing you all the best of everything
- Wishing you the best
- With kind affection
- With kindest personal regards
- With warmth
- With gratitude
- With all best wishes
- With love
- With all good wishes
- Yearning for you
- You’re in my prayers
- You’re in my thoughts
- Your friend
- Yours truly
- Yours faithfully
- Yours sincerely
- Yours regardless
- Yours ‘til the cat meows
- Yours most sincerely
- Yours always
- Yours ever
- Yours respectfully
- Yours
*** Note:
There are certain closings that you want to avoid in any business letter. Most of these are simply too informal. Some examples of closings to avoid are listed below:
Always,
Cheers,
Love,
Take care,
XOXO,
Avoid these kinds of sign-offs, which are more appropriate for messages to friends or loved ones.
Quick Guide: Which Ending Should You Use?
| Situation | Recommended Ending |
|---|---|
| Job application | Yours sincerely / Sincerely |
| Business email | Kind regards / Best regards |
| Teacher or client | Best regards |
| Friend | Take care / Best |
| Family | Love |