“Best regards” is a common and polite way to close an email or letter, especially in professional communication. However, there are many alternatives that convey varying levels of formality, warmth, and tone depending on the context.
Formal Alternatives to Best Regards
- Kind regards – Slightly more warm than “Best regards” but still professional.
- Yours sincerely – Common in British English when you know the recipient’s name.
- Yours faithfully – Used in British English when the recipient’s name is unknown.
- Respectfully – Very formal and polite, often used in hierarchical communication.
- With highest regards – Very respectful and formal, suitable for distinguished recipients.
Semi-Formal Alternatives
- Warm regards – A friendly tone, appropriate for professional but closer relationships.
- With appreciation – Shows gratitude and is appropriate in thank-you notes.
- All the best – Friendly and slightly less formal than “Best regards.”
- Best wishes – Friendly and positive, suitable for colleagues or partners.
- With gratitude – Expresses genuine thanks in a more formal way.
Casual Alternatives
- Thanks – Simple and informal, best used in casual work or peer communication.
- Take care – Friendly and informal, works well in personal or casual professional messages.
- Cheers – Common in British and Australian English; relaxed and friendly.
- Talk soon – Informal and used when expecting a follow-up.
- Later – Very casual and mostly used in internal or team messages.
How to Choose the Right Closing
| Closing Phrase | Formality Level | Best Used When |
|---|---|---|
| Kind regards | Formal | Professional communication |
| All the best | Semi-formal | Professional but friendly tone |
| Cheers | Casual | Internal or relaxed communication |
| With gratitude | Semi-formal | Expressing thanks or appreciation |
| Yours sincerely | Very Formal | Business letters or official documents |
Conclusion
Choosing the right alternative to “Best regards” depends on the relationship with the recipient and the tone you wish to convey. From highly formal to completely casual, there’s a sign-off for every occasion that helps personalize and clarify your message.
FAQ
Is “Kind regards” more formal than “Best regards”?
“Kind regards” is slightly warmer and less formal than “Best regards,” making it ideal for friendly professional correspondence.
What’s the most professional way to sign off an email?
“Yours sincerely” or “Respectfully” are among the most professional closings, especially in formal business or official communication.
Can I use “Cheers” in a business email?
“Cheers” can be acceptable in informal or internal business emails, particularly in UK or Australian workplaces, but it may be too casual for some settings.
What’s a good alternative for “Best regards” in a thank-you note?
“With appreciation” or “With gratitude” are great choices that clearly express thanks while remaining respectful.
Is it okay to use informal closings in professional emails?
It depends on your relationship with the recipient. If you have a casual rapport, informal closings like “Take care” or “Thanks” may be appropriate.
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