Communicating in a language other than your native language can present a variety of challenges, especially when it comes to writing phrases. Knowing how to open and close a letter in a foreign language is important, as this can be a sign of your knowledge of that language and culture. Just like in English, in German there is also a standard phrase to close a letter. Read on to learn how to close a letter in German.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Choosing the Right Cover
Step 1. Write a friendly/polite sentence before the closing sentence of the letter
You may want to thank your readers for taking the time, or say that you are waiting for their suggestions or input (in a formal letter), or say that you miss them (in an informal letter). Keep in mind that the first three suggestions are official, while the last three suggestions below are informal. Here are some ways to end your letter before closing it:
- Ich Bedanke mich bei Ihnen im Voraus (I thank you in advance).
- Ich würde mich freuen, bald von Ihnen zu hören (I hope you will reply to this letter soon).
- Für weitere Auskünfte stehe ich Ihnen gerne zur Verfügung (I am ready to provide any further information you need).
- Ich freue mich auf Deine Antwort (I am waiting for your reply).
- Bitte antworte mir bald (Reply to my letter soon).
- Melde dich bald (I hope to see you soon).
Step 2. Choose a formal closing phrase if you need one
The following are some of the most used letter closing phrases. Remember, the closing sentence of the first letter is only appropriate for very formal letters.
- Hochachtungsvoll (Sincerely)
- Mit besten Grüßen (With my respect)
- Mit freundlichen Empfehlungen (Greetings)
- Freundliche Grüße (Greetings)
Step 3. Choose an informal cover letter for a more casual conversation
The first three concluding sentences are slightly informal, while the next three concluding sentences are very informal:
- Freundliche Grüße (Greetings)
- Mit herzlichen Grüßen (With warm regards)
- Herzliche Grüße (Greetings)
- Ich druck Dich (Hug)
- Alles Liebe (Greetings)
- Bis bald (Hope we see you soon)
- Ich vermisse Dich (I miss you)
Step 4. Sign your letter below the closing sentence
The last step you have to do is sign and send your letter.
Part 2 of 3: Understanding Your Letter Reader
Step 1. Know the age of the reader of your letter
Language is something that is constantly changing, and this is reflected in both verbal and written communication. For the older generation, it is safer to use a formal letter and closing structure. For the younger generation, you may be able to use the colloquial language.
The main rule is to use more formal language (yes, even in informal letters) with people 60 years of age or older
Step 2. Decide how many people you are mailing to
Sometimes you only have one reader of your letter, but sometimes you have to send the same letter to a group of people. While this may affect the body and opening of the letter more, it can also help you decide on the right ending.
Step 3. Check your recipient's German proficiency
You can opt for a more elaborate ending if your reader is a native German speaker, or is very familiar with it. However, choose a clear and concise conclusion if your reader has limited German proficiency.
Part 3 of 3: Determining the Tone of Your Letter
Step 1. Determine if your letter is official
If you're writing to someone you don't know well or don't know at all, chances are your letter is official. It is very important to pay attention to this, not only for the body of your letter, but also for the conclusion of your letter.
Formal letters: examples for your boss, co-workers, an organization, and anyone you don't know well, or have never met
Step 2. Determine if your letter is informal
Writing a letter to your best friend or mother? Chances are your letter is informal.
Unofficial: examples are for family and friends, and anyone you know well
Step 3. Understand about the level of officiality
Once you've determined whether your letter is official or not, it's time to get into the grading section. In other words, writing a letter to your boss requires a different ending than writing a letter to the President. While writing a letter to your partner also requires a different ending than a letter to your parents.
