Avoiding overused business letter phrases:
Many business letters contain hackneyed phrases that detract from a clear, natural style. You need to look for them in your writing and use fresh, clear expression instead. Look at this list and see if you recognize any from your letters:
• according to our records • on receipt of
• after careful consideration • please do not hesitate to
• any further action • please find enclosed
• as you are aware • please forward
• at your earliest convenience • trust this is satisfactory
• detailed information • under separate cover
• enclosed for your information • upon receipt of
• for your convenience • urgent attention
• further to • we acknowledge receipt
• in receipt of • we regret to advise
Look at these examples from typical business letters and you’ll see how removing the business clichés changes the tone of the sentence. The originals have a formal and impersonal tone; the redrafts sound more personal and genuine.
Original:
We trust this is satisfactory, but should you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us.
Redraft:
We hope you are happy with this arrangement but if you have any questions, please contact us.
Original:
Further to your recent communication. Please find enclosed the requested quotation…
Redraft:
Thank you for contacting us. I enclose the quotation you asked for…
Many business letters contain hackneyed phrases that detract from a clear, natural style. You need to look for them in your writing and use fresh, clear expression instead. Look at this list and see if you recognize any from your letters:
• according to our records • on receipt of
• after careful consideration • please do not hesitate to
• any further action • please find enclosed
• as you are aware • please forward
• at your earliest convenience • trust this is satisfactory
• detailed information • under separate cover
• enclosed for your information • upon receipt of
• for your convenience • urgent attention
• further to • we acknowledge receipt
• in receipt of • we regret to advise
Look at these examples from typical business letters and you’ll see how removing the business clichés changes the tone of the sentence. The originals have a formal and impersonal tone; the redrafts sound more personal and genuine.
Original:
We trust this is satisfactory, but should you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us.
Redraft:
We hope you are happy with this arrangement but if you have any questions, please contact us.
Original:
Further to your recent communication. Please find enclosed the requested quotation…
Redraft:
Thank you for contacting us. I enclose the quotation you asked for…
