Introduction
When writing emails, letters, or other forms of communication, the closing phrase is just as important as the content itself. “Sincerely” is one of the most commonly used sign-offs in professional settings, but there are many alternatives that can help you tailor your message to fit different contexts, tones, and relationships.
This article explores over 26 professional alternatives to “Sincerely,” categorized by formality and purpose. Whether you’re drafting a formal email, a friendly work message, or a casual text, you’ll find the perfect sign-off here.
Why Choose an Alternative to “Sincerely”?
While “Sincerely” is a safe and respectful closing, it can sometimes feel overly formal or generic. Choosing an alternative can:
- Add warmth: Some closings convey friendliness and approachability.
- Reflect professionalism: Certain alternatives maintain a polished tone without being too stiff.
- Match the context: A formal business letter requires a different sign-off than a quick email to a colleague.
- Personalize your message: A unique closing can leave a lasting impression.
Formal Alternatives to “Sincerely”
For professional emails, business letters, and formal correspondence, these closings maintain respect and professionalism:
1. Best regards
A polished and widely accepted closing that works in nearly all professional settings.
🔹 Example:
“Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name]”
2. Kind regards
A slightly warmer alternative that adds a touch of friendliness without sacrificing professionalism.
🔹 Example:
“I appreciate your assistance with this matter. Kind regards, [Your Name]”
3. Respectfully
Used when addressing authority figures or writing in highly formal contexts.
🔹 Example:
“I appreciate your guidance on this issue. Respectfully, [Your Name]”
4. Yours truly
Commonly used in professional and legal correspondence.
🔹 Example:
“I look forward to our continued collaboration. Yours truly, [Your Name]”
5. Yours faithfully
Appropriate for formal letters, especially when the recipient’s name is unknown.
🔹 Example:
“Thank you for your consideration. Yours faithfully, [Your Name]”
6. With appreciation
Adds a sense of gratitude, making it a great option for thank-you emails.
🔹 Example:
“I appreciate your support on this project. With appreciation, [Your Name]”
7. Cordially
Maintains a professional tone while adding warmth, often used in business letters.
🔹 Example:
“Looking forward to your response. Cordially, [Your Name]”
8. With respect
A respectful alternative, especially useful in legal or academic contexts.
🔹 Example:
“Thank you for your insights. With respect, [Your Name]”
Friendly and Warm Alternatives to “Sincerely”
For professional emails with a touch of friendliness, these closings strike the right balance:
9. Best
A simple, versatile closing suitable for both formal and informal emails.
🔹 Example:
“Looking forward to our meeting. Best, [Your Name]”
10. Warm regards
Adds warmth while remaining professional, often used in networking emails.
🔹 Example:
“I appreciate your help! Warm regards, [Your Name]”
11. All the best
A casual yet professional way to end an email.
🔹 Example:
“Wishing you success in your new role! All the best, [Your Name]”
12. Take care
Appropriate for colleagues or professional acquaintances, adding a caring touch.
🔹 Example:
“Let me know if you need anything else. Take care, [Your Name]”
13. Wishing you well
A polite and warm sign-off, ideal for positive messages.
🔹 Example:
“Looking forward to working together. Wishing you well, [Your Name]”
14. Cheers
Casual yet professional, often used in creative industries or informal work settings.
🔹 Example:
“Great job on the presentation! Cheers, [Your Name]”
15. Have a great day
A cheerful and positive closing.
🔹 Example:
“Hope this helps! Have a great day, [Your Name]”
Casual and Texting-Friendly Alternatives to “Sincerely”
For friendly, informal messages or quick emails, these closings work well:
16. Talk soon
Ideal for colleagues or friends when you expect to continue the conversation.
🔹 Example:
“Let’s catch up later. Talk soon, [Your Name]”
17. See you soon
A great choice when meeting someone in person soon.
🔹 Example:
“Excited for our meeting tomorrow! See you soon, [Your Name]”
18. Later!
A relaxed and casual closing, best for texting or informal emails.
🔹 Example:
“I’ll send you the details later. Later! [Your Name]”
19. Take it easy
Conveys a laid-back tone, often used among friends.
🔹 Example:
“Hope you have a smooth day! Take it easy, [Your Name]”
20. Catch you later
Casual and friendly, often used in internal team messages.
🔹 Example:
“Let’s touch base next week. Catch you later, [Your Name]”
21. Stay awesome
Adds personality and enthusiasm to your sign-off.
🔹 Example:
“Loved your insights in the meeting! Stay awesome, [Your Name]”
22. Have a good one
A relaxed way to end a conversation.
🔹 Example:
“Thanks for the update! Have a good one, [Your Name]”
23. Keep in touch
Encourages future communication.
🔹 Example:
“Would love to stay connected. Keep in touch, [Your Name]”
24. Much appreciated
A great way to express gratitude informally.
🔹 Example:
“Thanks for your help! Much appreciated, [Your Name]”
25. Be well
A short and caring alternative.
🔹 Example:
“Wishing you good health and happiness. Be well, [Your Name]”
26. Peace
A laid-back and positive closing.
🔹 Example:
“Looking forward to our chat. Peace, [Your Name]”
How to Choose the Best Sign-Off
- Consider the recipient – Is the email for a manager, client, or friend?
- Match the formality – Use professional closings for formal settings and casual ones for informal messages.
- Reflect the tone – Choose a warm, neutral, or energetic closing based on your message.
- Be consistent – Keep your email’s tone and sign-off aligned.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right alternative to “Sincerely” can improve your email’s tone, professionalism, and engagement. Whether you’re writing to a boss, a coworker, or a friend, selecting an appropriate closing helps leave a positive impression. Experiment with different sign-offs and find the ones that best suit your communication style.