Mastering the Art of Closing a Letter in Japanese- A Guide to Polite and Proficient Conclusions

How to Close a Letter in Japanese

Closing a letter in Japanese is an important aspect of proper etiquette, whether you are writing a formal business letter or a personal correspondence. The way you end your letter can convey respect, gratitude, and a sense of closure. In this article, we will explore the various ways to close a letter in Japanese, including traditional phrases and their appropriate contexts.

1. Traditional Phrases

One of the most common ways to close a letter in Japanese is by using traditional phrases that are widely recognized and appreciated. Here are a few examples:

– Yoroshiku onegaishimasu: This phrase is often used in both formal and informal settings. It translates to “Please take care of things” or “I hope you do well.” It is a sign of respect and is suitable for ending almost any type of letter.

– Arigatou gozaimasu: This phrase means “Thank you very much” and is commonly used to express gratitude. It is appropriate for letters where you want to show appreciation for the recipient’s help or kindness.

– Osusume ga arimasu: This phrase translates to “I hope this is helpful” and is often used when you are suggesting something or providing advice.

2. Formal Closing

In formal correspondence, it is essential to use appropriate language and expressions. Here are some formal closing phrases you can consider:

– Keizoku ni shitsurei shimasu: This means “I await your further instructions” and is suitable for business letters where you are seeking further guidance or instructions from the recipient.

– Mata oboeru koto ga arimasu: This translates to “I will keep you informed” and is often used when you want to assure the recipient that you will update them on a particular matter.

– Shitsurei shimasu: Simply meaning “I await your reply,” this phrase is a formal way to indicate that you are looking forward to a response from the recipient.

3. Informal Closing

For informal letters, you can use more casual and friendly closing phrases. Here are a few examples:

– Yoroshiku onegaishimasu: As mentioned earlier, this phrase is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

– Mata asobou: This means “Let’s meet again” and is a friendly way to suggest a future meeting or gathering.

– Ni hao: Simply meaning “Hello,” this phrase is a casual and friendly way to end a letter.

4. Adding a Signature

In addition to choosing the right closing phrase, it is also important to include your signature or name at the end of the letter. In Japanese, signatures are often written in kanji characters, and it is common to include your name in both kanji and katakana (phonetic script) for clarity.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively close your letter in Japanese, ensuring that your message is conveyed with the appropriate level of respect and formality. Remember to consider the context of your letter and choose the closing phrase that best suits the occasion.