Faithfully yours

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Faithfully yours" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a formal closing in letters, especially in business correspondence or when addressing someone with whom you have a formal relationship. Example: "Thank you for your assistance in this matter. Faithfully yours, John Smith."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Faithfully Yours CHARLES DICKENS Instead, I made do with the usual feeble promise: Back soon.

The New Yorker

Respectfully and faithfully yours".

The Guardian

The K.K.K. made a thousand-dollar donation to the University of Virginia; the school's president at the time, E. A. Alderman, signed his thank-you note "Faithfully yours".

The New Yorker

One such relationship was between Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, who wrote to Anne Wortley in 1709: "Nobody was so entirely, so faithfully yours.

Wikipedia

It may be it is our brother, but God only knows ... one cannot help having a thousand fears and melancholy thoughts, but whatever changes may happen you shall ever find me firm to my religion and faithfully yours".

Wikipedia

Otherwise, write "Respectfully yours," "Faithfully yours," or simply "Sincerely".

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

To write your signature, leave a blank space under the Yours faithfully or Yours sincerely where you can write in your signature by hand.

WikiHow

Use Yours sincerely or Yours faithfully.

WikiHow

Yours faithfully, Jan Morris".

Independent

Yours faithfully Abdul-Hakim.

Independent

Yours faithfully... TIM RACE.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Faithfully yours" when you do not know the name of the person you are addressing in a formal letter. If you know their name, "Sincerely yours" is more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "Faithfully yours" in casual emails or messages to friends and colleagues. Opt for warmer, less formal closings like "Best" or "Cheers" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Faithfully yours" functions as a formal complimentary close in written correspondence. As shown in Ludwig, it is typically used to end a letter or email, signaling the end of the message and expressing respect or sincerity to the recipient. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Faithfully yours" serves as a formal closing in written communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, this grammatically sound phrase is especially suitable for letters and emails to individuals whose names are unknown to the writer. Although the usage is less frequent than alternatives like "Sincerely yours", it remains a valid option for professional correspondence. The phrase's formality dictates its best use cases in business and formal exchanges, while less formal options are preferred for everyday communication. This detailed analysis underscores its appropriate contexts, alternatives, and potential misuses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Sincerely yours

A very common and slightly less formal alternative.

Yours sincerely

Used when you know the recipient's name.

Respectfully yours

Conveys a higher degree of deference and respect.

Yours truly

An older, somewhat less common formal closing.

Kind regards

Similar to "best regards", but slightly more formal.

Best regards

A more casual closing, suitable for less formal correspondence.

Cordially

A warm and friendly closing, suitable for professional relationships.

With gratitude

Emphasizes appreciation and thankfulness.

Best wishes

Expresses goodwill and positive feelings.

Regards

A simple and neutral closing for general use.

FAQs

When should I use "Faithfully yours"?

"Faithfully yours" is best used in formal correspondence when you do not know the name of the person you are addressing. It's a traditional closing for letters and formal emails.

What is the difference between "Faithfully yours" and "Sincerely yours"?

The key difference lies in whether you know the recipient's name. Use "Yours sincerely" when you know the person's name and "Faithfully yours" when you don't. However, "Sincerely yours" is also widely acceptable even when the name is unknown.

Are there modern alternatives to "Faithfully yours"?

While "Faithfully yours" is still correct, modern alternatives such as "best regards" or "kind regards" may be more appropriate in some business contexts. These options are slightly less formal.

Can I use "Faithfully yours" in an email?

Yes, you can use "Faithfully yours" in a formal email, especially when addressing someone you don't know by name. Be mindful of the overall tone and formality of your message.