Writing Letters: BEGINNINGS
The way you begin a letter is determined by
This should usually be clear from the first sentence(s).
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Beginnings
Listed below are some typical reasons for writing.
For each reason, typical beginnings are listed.
- Answering Previous Communications
Below are some typical beginnings.
I am writing in reply to |
your letter of 12 June in which you request … |
I am writing in response to |
| Thank you for |
your letter of 12 June in which you requested … |
| We have received |
| With reference to your letter of 12 June, |
I am pleased to inform you … |
| In reply to your letter of 12 June, |
| Referring to your letter of 12 June, |
| Further to our (telephone) conversation of 12 June, |
- Requesting or Inquiring
Below are some typical beginnings.
I am writing
|
to request some information about... |
to inquire about... |
| with regard to... |
| I would like |
to inquire about... |
| to have some information about... |
| I would appreciate |
receiving some information about... |
| it if you could send me some information about... |
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Writing Letters: ENDINGS
The way you end your letter depends on
- the nature of the letter and
- what you expect to happen next (a prompt answer, an end to the exchange, etc.)
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Endings
Below are a few possible ways to end a letter.
- Thanking
Below are some typical endings.
If you have given information requiring action or made a request (for information, service, etc.)
Any
|
help |
you can provide |
will be very much appreciated. |
| assistance |
| information |
| Your cooperation in this matter |
If the addressee has done something specific
|
(Once again) I would/should like to thank you for your |
cooperation. |
| assistance. |
| information. |
| (kind) invitation. |
If you are answering a letter requesting information, making comments or suggestions
(very general)
| Thank you for |
your cooperation. |
| your interest in our programme. |
- Encouraging an Answer
Below are some typical endings.
| I look forward to hearing from you |
very soon. |
| at your earliest convenience. |
| I would appreciate |
hearing from you |
at your earliest convenience. |
| receving an answer |
- Offering Further Help
Below are some typical endings.
| Please |
do not hesitate to contact me |
if I can be of further assistance. |
| feel free to contact me |
| If you have any further questions |
please contact me.
|
| If you require any further |
assistance |
| information |
- Implying an End to the Exchange
Below are some typical endings.
| I hope |
that this information will be of some assistance. |
| that these arrangements will meet with your approval. |
- Encouraging Continued Communication
Below are some typical endings.
| I look forward to |
hearing from you again (soon). |
| having further opportunities to work together. |
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