When you write a message — whether it’s a heartfelt letter, a professional email, or a thank-you note — how you close your message matters. The word “sincerely” has long been a classic way to end correspondence with warmth and respect. But sometimes, you might want something more personal, warmer, or better suited to your tone and relationship with the reader.
In this guide, you’ll find 30 thoughtful alternatives to “sincerely” — each explained with its meaning, tone, and best use — to help you express yourself more authentically and with care.
What Does “Sincerely” Mean?
The word “Sincerely” is used to express honesty, respect, and genuine intent at the end of a letter or message. It comes from the Latin word sincerus, meaning “pure” or “genuine,” and has long been associated with authentic communication. When you close a message with “Sincerely,” you’re letting the recipient know that your words are truthful and heartfelt—that what you’ve written is free from pretense or exaggeration.
In both personal and professional contexts, “Sincerely” serves as a polite bridge between your message and your signature. It shows that you care enough to end your communication with grace and integrity, whether you’re writing a formal email, a thank-you note, or a letter to someone you respect.
Overall, “Sincerely” is a way to remind the reader that your message was written with honesty, respect, and good intentions, making it one of the most enduring and universally appropriate closings in written communication.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Sincerely”?
Yes — absolutely. “Sincerely” remains one of the most professional and universally accepted closings in business and personal communication. It’s appropriate in nearly any context where you want to appear respectful and genuine.
However, it can sometimes feel stiff or impersonal if you’re writing to someone you know well or want to convey warmth. That’s where the alternatives below come in.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Saying “Sincerely”
Advantages:
- Universally recognized and accepted
- Conveys honesty and formality
- Works well in both personal and professional contexts
Disadvantages:
- Can sound generic or overly formal
- Lacks emotional warmth in casual messages
- Doesn’t always reflect your personal tone or relationship
Synonyms For “Sincerely”
- Warm regards
- Kind regards
- Best regards
- With appreciation
- Respectfully
- Yours truly
- Yours faithfully
- Yours sincerely
- Warmly
- Take care
- With gratitude
- All the best
- Best wishes
- Cheers
- Yours respectfully
- Warmest regards
- With thanks
- Cordially
- Affectionately
- Fondly
- Many thanks
- Faithfully yours
- With respect
- Be well
- Peace and blessings
- Gratefully
- Yours in partnership
- With love
- With heartfelt thanks
- Sincerely yours
1. Warm regards
Meaning: A closing that adds friendliness to professionalism.
Definition: Expresses genuine warmth while keeping a formal tone.
Detailed Explanation: It’s slightly softer than “sincerely,” showing care and goodwill without crossing into overly personal territory.
Scenario Example:
I appreciate your help throughout this project. Warm regards, David
Best Use: Professional emails where you want to show both respect and warmth.
Tone: Polite, friendly, and professional.
2. Kind regards
Meaning: A gentle, polite way to sign off with respect.
Definition: Communicates professionalism with a mild warmth.
Detailed Explanation: This is a go-to alternative that’s appropriate in almost all professional contexts.
Scenario Example:
Please find the attached report for your review. Kind regards, Natalie
Best Use: Everyday business communication.
Tone: Courteous and neutral.
3. Best regards
Meaning: Expresses well-wishing and respect.
Definition: Similar to “kind regards,” but slightly warmer and more upbeat.
Detailed Explanation: It’s friendly yet professional — a balance between sincerity and approachability.
Scenario Example:
Looking forward to collaborating with you next quarter. Best regards, Liam
Best Use: Business partnerships or client correspondence.
Tone: Professional and optimistic.
4. With appreciation
Meaning: Shows gratitude while keeping professionalism.
Definition: Expresses that you value the reader’s effort or time.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal when thanking someone or closing after expressing gratitude.
Scenario Example:
Thank you for considering my proposal. With appreciation, Chloe
Best Use: Emails that involve gratitude or acknowledgment.
Tone: Respectful and thankful.
5. Respectfully
Meaning: Conveys high regard and politeness.
Definition: Indicates a respectful attitude toward the recipient.
Detailed Explanation: Common in formal letters, especially when addressing authority figures.
Scenario Example:
I look forward to your decision on this matter. Respectfully, Jordan
Best Use: Formal or hierarchical correspondence.
Tone: Formal and deferential.
6. Yours truly
Meaning: A classic, heartfelt closing.
Definition: Indicates genuine intent and sincerity.
Detailed Explanation: Often used in traditional letters, especially in North America.
Scenario Example:
It was a pleasure meeting with you. Yours truly, Emma
Best Use: Formal letters or heartfelt personal correspondence.
Tone: Warm and traditional.
7. Yours faithfully
Meaning: A sign-off used to show loyalty and respect.
Definition: Indicates that you’re writing with honesty and commitment.
Detailed Explanation: Common in British English when addressing someone whose name you don’t know.
Scenario Example:
I appreciate your time and attention. Yours faithfully, Oliver
Best Use: British formal letters starting with “Dear Sir/Madam.”
Tone: Formal and respectful.
8. Yours sincerely
Meaning: The British counterpart to the American “sincerely.”
Definition: Used when the recipient’s name is known.
Detailed Explanation: This version adds a touch more warmth and personalization.
Scenario Example:
Thank you for your guidance during this process. Yours sincerely, Amelia
Best Use: British formal correspondence.
Tone: Polite and professional.
9. Warmly
Meaning: A short, heartfelt sign-off.
Definition: Expresses genuine warmth and friendliness.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for semi-formal messages that need a touch of personality.
Scenario Example:
Great catching up with you last week! Warmly, Mia
Best Use: Personal or friendly professional emails.
Tone: Friendly and genuine.
10. Take care
Meaning: A thoughtful, caring way to end a message.
Definition: Conveys genuine concern for the recipient’s well-being.
Detailed Explanation: More informal but deeply kind.
Scenario Example:
I hope everything goes well with the new project. Take care, Ben
Best Use: Personal or warm professional exchanges.
Tone: Caring and kind.
11. With gratitude
Meaning: A sincere expression of thanks.
Definition: Shows appreciation and humility.
Detailed Explanation: Best for thank-you notes or acknowledgment messages.
Scenario Example:
Thank you for your generous support. With gratitude, Sophia
Best Use: Gratitude-focused messages.
Tone: Thankful and sincere.
12. All the best
Meaning: Wishing someone well in a friendly tone.
Definition: Expresses goodwill and encouragement.
Detailed Explanation: It’s approachable and versatile, fitting for both casual and semi-formal contexts.
Scenario Example:
Wishing you luck on your presentation tomorrow! All the best, Noah
Best Use: Friendly, supportive communication.
Tone: Positive and warm.
13. Best wishes
Meaning: A closing that conveys hope and good intent.
Definition: Similar to “all the best” but slightly more polished.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for both personal and polite professional contexts.
Scenario Example:
Congratulations on your new role! Best wishes, Ava
Best Use: Congratulatory or warm professional messages.
Tone: Friendly and thoughtful.
14. Cheers
Meaning: A casual, upbeat alternative.
Definition: Common in British and Australian English as a friendly sign-off.
Detailed Explanation: Works well in informal or friendly business emails.
Scenario Example:
Looking forward to catching up soon. Cheers, Jack
Best Use: Casual work or personal correspondence.
Tone: Relaxed and friendly.
15. Yours respectfully
Meaning: Combines sincerity with deference.
Definition: Indicates both honesty and respect.
Detailed Explanation: A slightly more formal twist on “respectfully.”
Scenario Example:
I appreciate your thoughtful feedback. Yours respectfully, Lucas
Best Use: Formal letters to superiors or clients.
Tone: Formal and polished.
16. Warmest regards
Meaning: Adds extra warmth to the traditional “regards.”
Definition: Communicates genuine friendliness.
Detailed Explanation: A good option when writing to clients, colleagues, or friends.
Scenario Example:
It was lovely working with you on this campaign. Warmest regards, Hannah
Best Use: Friendly yet professional notes.
Tone: Warm and gracious.
17. With thanks
Meaning: A simple, direct expression of gratitude.
Definition: Shows appreciation without overstatement.
Detailed Explanation: Works well in brief professional emails.
Scenario Example:
Please find the attached file you requested. With thanks, Grace
Best Use: Professional thank-you or acknowledgment emails.
Tone: Polite and grateful.
Read More: 30 Other Ways to Say “Sounds Good” (With Examples)
18. Cordially
Meaning: A classic, formal closing with warmth.
Definition: Derived from “cordial,” meaning heartfelt.
Detailed Explanation: Balances professionalism with kindness.
Scenario Example:
It was a pleasure speaking with you yesterday. Cordially, Thomas
Best Use: Formal letters and invitations.
Tone: Formal and warm.
19. Affectionately
Meaning: Conveys deep personal warmth.
Definition: Used in emotional or personal letters.
Detailed Explanation: Suitable for family or close friends.
Scenario Example:
I’ll always cherish our time together. Affectionately, Lily
Best Use: Personal correspondence.
Tone: Loving and intimate.
20. Fondly
Meaning: Expresses gentle affection.
Definition: A sweet, old-fashioned way to close a heartfelt message.
Detailed Explanation: Less formal but filled with care.
Scenario Example:
Missing our coffee chats lately! Fondly, Ella
Best Use: Close relationships.
Tone: Warm and personal.
21. Many thanks
Meaning: A friendly thank-you closing.
Definition: Shows gratitude without being overly formal.
Detailed Explanation: Often used in professional or casual exchanges.
Scenario Example:
Appreciate your help on this. Many thanks, Ethan
Best Use: Everyday work messages.
Tone: Grateful and approachable.
22. Faithfully yours
Meaning: Emphasizes loyalty and respect.
Definition: Slightly poetic and traditional.
Detailed Explanation: Used in heartfelt or formal writing.
Scenario Example:
I remain committed to our mission. Faithfully yours, Daniel
Best Use: Traditional or formal correspondence.
Tone: Respectful and earnest.
23. With respect
Meaning: Polite and deferential.
Definition: Communicates a respectful closing.
Detailed Explanation: Works best when writing to someone of higher standing.
Scenario Example:
Thank you for considering my concerns. With respect, Nora
Best Use: Formal appeals or requests.
Tone: Polite and serious.
24. Be well
Meaning: Wishes health and happiness.
Definition: A modern, caring sign-off.
Detailed Explanation: Adds a thoughtful, human touch to your email.
Scenario Example:
Hope things are going smoothly for you. Be well, Ryan
Best Use: Friendly or empathetic messages.
Tone: Kind and uplifting.
25. Peace and blessings
Meaning: Expresses goodwill and peace.
Definition: A warm and spiritual sign-off.
Detailed Explanation: Often used in compassionate or faith-based messages.
Scenario Example:
Wishing you calm and clarity in the days ahead. Peace and blessings, Maria
Best Use: Personal or community-based communication.
Tone: Gentle and heartfelt.
26. Gratefully
Meaning: A sincere show of thankfulness.
Definition: Conveys deep appreciation.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for formal thank-you letters.
Scenario Example:
Thank you for your continued guidance. Gratefully, Olivia
Best Use: Gratitude-focused writing.
Tone: Thankful and formal.
27. Yours in partnership
Meaning: Expresses collaboration and teamwork.
Definition: Indicates unity and mutual respect.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for business partners or project teams.
Scenario Example:
Excited for what’s ahead in our next phase. Yours in partnership, Carter
Best Use: Professional partnerships or collaborations.
Tone: Supportive and professional.
28. With love
Meaning: A deeply personal, affectionate closing.
Definition: Expresses strong emotional connection.
Detailed Explanation: Used only in intimate or family contexts.
Scenario Example:
Can’t wait to see you soon! With love, Sarah
Best Use: Letters to family or close friends.
Tone: Loving and personal.
29. With heartfelt thanks
Meaning: Expresses genuine, deep gratitude.
Definition: Goes beyond casual appreciation.
Detailed Explanation: Conveys that your thankfulness is heartfelt.
Scenario Example:
Your kindness truly means the world to me. With heartfelt thanks, Megan
Best Use: Gratitude-heavy personal or professional letters.
Tone: Warm and grateful.
30. Sincerely yours
Meaning: A slightly more intimate version of “sincerely.”
Definition: Suggests a personal yet honest closing.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect when you want to stay polite but heartfelt.
Scenario Example:
Thank you for always believing in me. Sincerely yours, Ella
Best Use: Semi-formal or personal correspondence.
Tone: Genuine and warm.
Conclusion
Finding the right way to close your message can transform how your words are received. While “sincerely” is always safe and respected, choosing a phrase that matches your tone, relationship, and intent can make your communication feel more authentic and heartfelt. Whether you’re writing a professional email or a personal note, the right sign-off leaves a lasting impression of care and sincerity.
Emma Brooke is a passionate language enthusiast and expert at Grammar Apex, dedicated to helping writers, students, and professionals refine their grammar and writing skills. With a keen eye for detail and a love for linguistic precision, Emma provides insightful tips, clear explanations, and practical guidance to make complex grammar rules easy to understand.