When writing formal letters or emails, choosing the right closing can leave a lasting impression on the reader. One of the most commonly used closings in professional correspondence is “sincerely yours.” While this expression may seem simple, understanding its correct meaning and appropriate usage is crucial—especially for university students, who often find themselves drafting emails to professors, applying for internships, or even reaching out to future employers.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the sincerely yours meaning, when to use it, and how it compares to other formal closings. Whether you’re writing a letter, an email, or a professional correspondence, we’ll guide you through the process of using “sincerely yours” effectively.
Sincerely Yours: Meaning and Background
The phrase “sincerely yours” is a common way to close a letter or email, and it expresses a formal, respectful tone. This closing is typically used when the writer wishes to convey a sense of genuine professionalism and sincerity towards the recipient. It’s particularly common in business correspondence, academic communication, and professional networking.
The phrase “sincerely” comes from the Latin word “sincerus,” which means “clean” or “pure,” suggesting that the writer’s words are truthful and heartfelt. When you sign off a letter or email with “sincerely yours,” you are essentially indicating that you are offering your words or actions in a genuine, respectful manner.
When to Use Sincerely Yours
Knowing when to use “sincerely yours” is key to ensuring your message is received as professional and respectful. Generally, this closing is appropriate for formal communications, especially when you don’t have a personal relationship with the recipient. Here are some typical scenarios in which you might use “sincerely yours”:
- Business Correspondence: If you’re applying for a job, writing to a potential employer, or responding to a business inquiry, “sincerely yours” is a safe, polite choice.
- Academic Communication: When writing to professors, tutors, or university staff, using “sincerely yours” can demonstrate professionalism, especially if you don’t have a personal relationship with the recipient.
- Professional Networking: In formal email correspondence or letters to colleagues or contacts you haven’t met in person, “sincerely yours” helps maintain a professional tone.
- Job Applications and Cover Letters: “Sincerely yours” is a common closing in job application letters or cover letters. It shows that you’re serious about the position and respectful towards the company.
In all of these cases, the goal is to maintain a respectful and professional tone, and “sincerely yours” perfectly fits the bill.
Sincerely Yours in Letter
When writing a formal letter, “sincerely yours” is typically used as the closing salutation. This is the final section of the letter, where you formally end the communication. It’s placed after the body of the letter, typically followed by your name.
Here’s an example of how you might use “sincerely yours” in a letter:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Post Code]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Position]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, Post Code]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to apply for the marketing internship position at your company. After reviewing the job description and learning more about your organisation, I believe my skills and experience align well with the role. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to your ongoing campaigns.
Please find my CV attached. I would appreciate the chance to discuss my application further in an interview.
Sincerely yours,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
In the above example, “sincerely yours” is used to convey respect for the recipient, while maintaining a professional tone throughout the letter.
Sincerely Yours in Email
In the digital age, many formal communications now take place over email rather than traditional letters. While emails may seem less formal than letters, the closing you choose can still have a significant impact on how your message is received.
When you’re writing a formal email to a professor, a potential employer, or a colleague, using “sincerely yours” can add a level of professionalism that’s appropriate for academic and business contexts. Here’s how you might use it in an email:
Subject: Application for Summer Internship
Dear Dr. Harris,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to express my interest in the summer internship opportunity within your department. I am currently a second-year student studying Computer Science, and I believe that my skills and passion for the field would make me a valuable addition to your team.
I have attached my CV for your review and would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your department.
Sincerely yours,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Just as with formal letters, “sincerely yours” at the end of an email helps to conclude your message on a respectful and polite note.
Sincerely Yours vs Yours Sincerely
You may have encountered the terms “sincerely yours” and “yours sincerely”, and wondered whether they mean the same thing or whether there’s a difference between the two.
Both are acceptable closings in formal correspondence, but their usage depends on the type of salutation you’ve used at the start of the letter or email:
- “Sincerely yours”: This closing is commonly used when the letter starts with a more formal or impersonal salutation, such as “Dear Sir/Madam.” This is the typical choice for business letters or applications.
- “Yours sincerely”: This is used when the letter begins with the recipient’s name, such as “Dear Mr. Smith.” “Yours sincerely” is the preferred option in British English when addressing someone directly by name, making it slightly more personal than “sincerely yours.”
While these two phrases are very similar, the key difference lies in the salutation at the beginning of the letter or email.
Your Sincerely vs Yours Faithfully
Another common point of confusion among students is when to use “Yours sincerely” versus “Yours faithfully”. Both are formal closings, but they differ in terms of how the letter or email is addressed.
- Yours sincerely: As mentioned, use this closing when you know the recipient’s name. For example, “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Dr. Johnson.”
- Yours faithfully: Use this closing when you don’t know the recipient’s name or if you’re addressing a more general title like “Dear Sir/Madam.” This is common in more formal or impersonal communications.
Here’s a breakdown:
- “Yours sincerely” is used when you have addressed the recipient by name.
- “Yours faithfully” is used when you have used a general salutation like “Dear Sir/Madam.”
Understanding when to use these phrases can help you sound more polished and professional in your correspondence.
Conclusion
The phrase “sincerely yours” is an essential closing for formal letters and emails. As a university student, mastering the art of professional communication is key to making a positive impression on professors, potential employers, and anyone else you interact with in a formal setting.
Whether you’re writing a job application, a letter to a professor, or an email to a colleague, using “sincerely yours” correctly can help ensure your message is both respectful and professional.
If you need help ensuring your letters and emails are error-free and effectively communicate your ideas, our proofreading services for students can assist you. We provide expert proofreading tailored to university students, helping you craft clear, polished communications. Reach out to us today and ensure your correspondence makes the right impression.
