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Topic: Modern Business Letters in English 1



Deigned to help you to choose the correct words when writing a business letter in English. We use examples from real business letters to ensure that you get the most current (up-to-date) examples available. Remember, most modern business letters are semi-formal, so most of the examples below are as well.

Choose the correct response for each of the sentences.


1. We're writing you in __________________________ to (= about) the email we received on...
  regards
  regarding
  view

2. __________________________... = On the other hand...
  Conversely
  Regrettably
  Incredibly

3. I received your email, in which you __________________________ (= described in detail) your plan to launch the product by next March.
  dated
  mentioned
  outlined

4. Sorry for __________________________ back to you so late. = Sorry for the late response.
  coming
  getting
  responding

5. Let's ___________________________ ( = arrange) a meeting for Friday.
  make up
  think up
  set up

6. At the present time... = At ___________________________ time...
  this
  current
  now

7. We usually ____________________ ( = communicate with) clients directly.
  deal with
  delve into
  dole out

8. It would really __________________ if you could send me some additional information.
  aid me out
  find it helpful
  help me out

9. I believe we should take a different ___________________________. = I think we should do something different.
  action item
  course of action
  action plan

10. I've ___________________________ ( = examined) your payment history, and I did notice the discrepancy that you mentioned.
  locked into
  looked into
  loaned out


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TOP TIP! Business emails

Here are some common phrases used in English business correspondence:

As per
Meaning: According to; following what was agreed or stated before.
Formality: Formal
Example:
As per our agreement, the payment will be processed by Friday.
Tip: Often used in contracts and formal emails, but can sound stiff in casual writing.

Please find attached
Meaning: Used to introduce a document you are sending with an email.
Formality: Formal
Example:
Please find attached the revised proposal for your review.
Common alternative:
I have attached... (more modern and slightly less formal)

At your earliest convenience
Meaning: As soon as it is reasonably possible for you.
Formality: Polite and formal
Example:
Could you please confirm your availability at your earliest convenience?
Tip: Polite but indirect—do not use when urgency is critical.

We would appreciate it if...
Meaning: A polite way to request something.
Formality: Formal
Example:
We would appreciate it if you could provide the updated figures by Monday.
Grammar note: Usually followed by past tense (could, would).

With regard to / Regarding
Meaning: About; concerning a specific topic.
Formality: Formal
Example:
With regard to your inquiry, we will respond within two business days.
Tip: Often used at the beginning of emails.

Just a quick note to...
Meaning: A friendly way to introduce a short message.
Formality: Informal-neutral
Example:
Just a quick note to confirm tomorrow's meeting at 10 a.m.
Tip: Often used at the start of emails; sounds polite and efficient.

I'm writing to let you know...
Meaning: Neutral way to give information.
Formality: Semi-formal
Example:
I'm writing to let you know that the deadline has been extended.
Alternative (more casual):
Just letting you know...

As discussed
Meaning: Refers to a previous conversation or meeting.
Formality: Neutral
Example:
As discussed, I've attached the updated timeline.
Tip: Very common in follow-up emails after meetings.

Could you...?
Meaning: Polite and direct way to make a request.
Formality: Neutral
Example:
Could you send me the final version by Friday?
Why it works: Friendly without sounding demanding.

Let me know
Meaning: Informal way to ask for a response or update.
Formality: Informal
Example:
Let me know if you're available this afternoon.
Common combination:
Let me know what you think.


MATERIALS TO HELP YOU LEARN (AND TEACH!):
BUSINESS ENGLISH GLOSSARY
BUSINESS ENGLISH WORKSHEET COLLECTION

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