10 Ways to End an Email
Just as important as the opening, the closing of your email leaves the final impression. Knowing how to correctly end an email involves using a polite closing sentence followed by an appropriate sign-off. This lesson offers ten perfect phrases for wrapping up your message, ensuring you always finish on a clear and professional note.
Common Ways to End an Email
Professional Closing Sentences
- I look forward to your reply.
Meaning: A polite and clear way to indicate that you are waiting for a response from the recipient. Best used in formal or professional settings.
Example: “Please review the attached document at your earliest convenience. I look forward to your reply.” - Thank you for your time and consideration.
Meaning: Used when you are asking the recipient for a favor, a job, or for them to spend their time reviewing something for you. Very polite and formal.
Example: “I have submitted all the required forms. Thank you for your time and consideration.” - Please let me know if you have any questions.
Meaning: The most common closing sentence used to offer further help or clarification. It is professional and friendly.
Example: “The project plan is complete. Please let me know if you have any questions.” - Looking forward to meeting you then.
Meaning: Used when you are confirming a scheduled meeting or call and expressing anticipation for it.
Example: “I’ll see you at 10 AM on Tuesday. Looking forward to meeting you then.” - Thanks again for your help.
Meaning: A friendly way to close an email after the recipient has already provided some assistance or information. Simple and appreciative.
Example: “I’ll finalize the details on my end. Thanks again for your help.” - Standard Sign-offs (Before Your Name)
- Best regards,
Meaning: The most common and safe professional sign-off in English. It is always appropriate for business communication.
Example: “Best regards, [Your Name].” - Sincerely,
Meaning: The most formal sign-off, typically reserved for very serious letters or job applications. It shows deep respect.
Example: “Sincerely, [Your Name].” - Thanks,
Meaning: A very common, casual, and brief sign-off. It is acceptable in most friendly and internal workplace emails.
Example: “Thanks, [Your Name].” - All the best,
Meaning: A warm, friendly, and appropriate sign-off for people you know fairly well. It’s often used when you are wishing the recipient success.
Example: “All the best, [Your Name].” - Talk soon,
Meaning: A friendly and casual sign-off used with people you communicate with regularly, such as close colleagues or friends.
Example: “Talk soon, [Your Name].”
Real-Life Dialogues
Formal Email Closing: “I have submitted the quarterly budget report for your approval. I look forward to your reply.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]“
Standard Professional Closing: “The revised documents are attached here. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Best regards,
[Your Name]“
Casual Closing: “I’m bringing the snacks for the party. Thanks again for your help.
All the best,
[Your Name]“
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Way to End an Email | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Formal/Job Application | Closing: Thank you for your time and consideration. Sign-off: Sincerely, | Highly respectful and appropriate for formal requests. |
| Standard Work Email | Closing: Please let me know if you have any questions. Sign-off: Best regards, | The most balanced, professional, and friendly combination. |
| Casual/Internal Email | Closing: Thanks again for your help. Sign-off: Thanks, or Talk soon, | Short, direct, and efficient for daily communication. |
| Expecting a Response | Closing: I look forward to your reply. Sign-off: Best regards, | Sets a clear expectation that a response is needed. |
Practice Tip
Avoid closing an email with just your name, especially in a formal context. Always include a closing line (like “I look forward to your reply”) followed by a sign-off (like “Best regards,”) to ensure your message is complete and polite.
Why This Matters
- Signal Action: Closing sentences like “I look forward to your reply” clearly tell the recipient what you need them to do next.
- Show Professionalism: Using formal sign-offs like “Sincerely” helps you maintain a respectful and credible image in business communication.
- Build Rapport: Warm sign-offs such as “All the best” help you create a friendly connection, even in a work setting.
Choose two different closings—one formal and one casual—and practice using them in your next emails. Being mindful of how you end an email will significantly improve your overall English communication! Happy learning! 😊
