Here are some more business email and letter phrases.In this list we look at how to make requests, complain, apologise and give bad news.
The examples in the left column are more formal. Theright-hand column shows the less formal equivalent.
See Also
How to say 'sorry' and mean itCommunicating Adverse Events: The Art of Apologizing Without Admitting Liability - Self-Insurance Programs_Sorry for the Inconvenience | Five AlternativesMaking and Responding to ApologiesWhen we make a request
| more formal | less formal |
| I would be grateful if you could … . | Could you possibly …? |
| I would appreciate (it) if you could … . | Could you please …? |
When we agree to a request someone has made
| more formal | less formal |
| I would be delighted to … . (delighted = very happy) | I will be happy to … . |
When apologising
| more formal | less formal |
| I apologise for the delay in replying. | Sorry for the delay in replying. |
| I/We apologise for the inconvenience. | Sorry for the inconvenience. |
| I/We apologise for any inconvenience caused. | Sorry for any trouble caused. |
| Please accept our/my sincere apologies. | I/We are very sorry … . |
When giving bad news
| more formal | less formal |
| I/We regret that … . | Unfortunately … . |
| I/We regret to inform you that … . | I am sorry to have to tell you that … . |
| I am afraid that I must inform you of/that … . | I am sorry to have to tell you that … . |
When complaining
The following phrases may be used as the opening line of the letter or email:
| more formal | less formal |
| I/We wish to draw your attention to … . | I wanted to inform you about … . |
| I am writing to complain about … . | I would like to complain about … . |
| I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with … . | [none] |
The following phrase may be used as the closing line of the letter or email:
| more formal | less formal |
| I would appreciate your immediate attention to the matter. | I would appreciate if you could sort it out as soon as possible. |
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